E-Interview Initiative: Over 22,000 Prisoners in Maharashtra Connect with Families

An innovative initiative, the ‘e-Mulakhat’ program, has witnessed over 22,000 male and female inmates in Maharashtra connecting with their families. Launched by the Prisons Department as part of the ‘e-Prisons’ system, this initiative facilitates communication between Indian and foreign prisoners and their families.

Between January 1 and March 31, several correctional facilities across the state have embraced this technological advancement. Notable participation includes Taloja Central Jail with 3,478 interviews, Thane Central Jail with 3,438, and Nagpur Central Jail with 3,425. Other facilities such as Mumbai Central Jail, Nashik Road Central Jail, Kalyan District Jail, and Yerawada Central Jail have also recorded significant utilization of the e-interview facility.

The brainchild of Additional Director General of Police and Inspector General of Prisons and Correctional Services, Amitabh Gupta, this initiative effectively manages day-to-day prison operations and enhances prisoner welfare. Information boards installed across all state prisons and high-traffic areas inform visitors about this novel facility.

Families, relatives, and lawyers can pre-register on the ‘e-prison’ system, facilitating scheduled interviews with inmates. This not only streamlines the process but also saves families the inconvenience and cost of physical visits. The positive response from families underscores the effectiveness and convenience of the e-interview system.

However, for security reasons, terrorists and Pakistani detainees are not eligible to benefit from this facility. Nevertheless, over 600 foreign convicts in state prisons can now interact with their families through this initiative, fostering connections and providing much-needed emotional support.