Hyderabad: Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla on Monday said prison de-addiction centres play a vital role in rehabilitation, as he inaugurated the “NIVRUTTI” facility at Cherlapalli Central Prison.
Addressing the gathering, he described the establishment of prison de-addiction centres as a commendable initiative. He said substance abuse has become a serious social and public health concern requiring a comprehensive response.
Drawing from his political experience, the Governor said he had been imprisoned several times. He added that this gave him a deeper understanding of challenges faced by inmates and prison staff.
He also recalled earlier efforts to improve prison conditions. These included providing basic amenities such as fans and televisions. He also mentioned steps taken to ensure parity in salaries between police constables and warders.
Prison de-addiction centres align with reform approach
The Governor appreciated the State government’s efforts to curb substance abuse. Shiv Pratap said these efforts aligned with the objectives of the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan.
He commended the Telangana Prisons Department for adopting a reform-oriented approach. He noted that prison de-addiction centres introduced under the leadership of Dr. Soumya Mishra marked an innovative step.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Soumya Mishra, Director General of Prisons and Correctional Services, said the Cherlapalli facility marked a milestone in prison reforms. Soumya Mishra emphasised that authorities should treat substance dependence as a public health issue.
She said medical care, counselling, and rehabilitation should replace punitive responses. She added that “NIVRUTTI” centres now operate at Central Prisons in Chanchalguda, Cherlapalli, Sangareddy, and Nizamabad, along with the Special Prison for Women in Hyderabad.
A total of 2,915 inmates have undergone screening so far. Of them, 590 received WHO-ASSIST assessment, counselling, and treatment under the prison de-addiction centres programme.
Prison de-addiction centres linked to rehabilitation initiatives
After the inauguration, the Governor visited the Prisoner Agricultural Colony at Cherlapalli. Shiv Pratap interacted with inmates and reviewed agricultural and vocational programmes.
He also visited the Public-Private Partnership initiative “Area 77” Nature Camp and Adventure Park. He appreciated the initiative during the visit.
The Governor inspected organic farming, apiculture, and other livelihood activities. He said such programmes promote skill development, discipline, and responsibility among inmates.
Inspector General of Prisons N. Muralibabu, Deputy Inspector General Dr. D. Srinivas, Superintendent N. Shiva Kumar Goud, Superintendent G. Pramod, D. Bharath, and other officials attended the event.