The Telangana Prisons Department is significantly enhancing its legal aid services, aiming to provide comprehensive legal support to all inmates, whether they are awaiting trial or have been convicted. Collaborating closely with the Telangana State Legal Services Authority, these efforts have already provided free legal assistance to 1,045 prisoners in 2024, and an additional 972 individuals by September 30th of the current year.
This important development was announced by Soumya Mishra, Director General of Prisons and Correctional Services, during a recent national conference. Titled ‘Building Justice Capacity for Tomorrow: Telangana in Dialogue,’ the event was a joint initiative by the India Justice Report, NALSAR University of Law, and the Access to Justice for Prisoners program, held on Saturday.
Ms. Mishra, alongside Inspector General of Prisons N. Muralibabu and Deputy Inspector General of Prisons M. Sampath, emphasized the department’s unwavering commitment to implementing correctional policies that prioritize reform. These policies are specifically designed to facilitate the reformation, rehabilitation, and successful return of inmates into society.
She further explained that Telangana’s correctional facilities are undergoing a digital transformation, establishing video conferencing links with courts to enhance both security and transparency. The department is also actively integrating its operations with the Judiciary through advanced e-courts and e-prisons modules, part of the broader Interoperable Criminal Justice System. This integration is crucial for improving overall coordination and ensuring greater data transparency across the justice system.
Highlighting the tangible benefits of “jail adalats” (prison courts), Ms. Mishra noted their significant role in accelerating case resolutions. In 2023, these adalats reviewed 1,128 cases, leading to the release of 376 prisoners. In 2024, the number rose to 1,932 cases, resulting in 483 releases. So far in 2025, 1,811 cases have been heard, with 460 prisoners regaining their freedom.
The “Smart Prisons” initiative underscores the department’s adoption of cutting-edge technology. This includes biometric identification systems, digitized inmate records, and innovative virtual legal aid platforms, all contributing to a more transparent and accountable correctional administration.