Scope of Welfare Services in the Indian Prisons

• NCJ Number: 87330
• Journal: Social Defence Volume: 17 Issue: 68 Dated: (April 1982) Pages: 35-49
• Author(s): M A Ansari
• Date Published: 1982
• Length: 15 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Language: English
• Country: India

Annotation

The rehabilitation network in India's prisons can be improved in the areas of medical and psychiatric services, inmate classification, casework, vocational training, linking of inmates to the community, inmate education, recreational services, and aftercare services.

Abstract

The social services currently provided in India's prisons are (1) the taking of case histories upon admission; (2) identification of inmate socioeconomic problems; (3) correspondence to help settle any inmate property and family disputes; and (4) recreational and educational programs. Even these limited services are not consistently and effectively applied in the prisons as part of a specified, integrated rehabilitative system. India has yet to appreciate the importance of rehabilitative services in prisons and to set a policy for the scope of such services. Medical and psychiatric services should be provided to ensure that each inmate has the opportunity to achieve physical and mental health as the foundation for improvement in the skills of normative living both in prison and in the community after release. Classification must be used to develop an integrated program for each inmate through the coordination of diagnostic, planning, and treatment activities throughout the prison stay. Casework can individualize the impact of the prison regime on inmates, while vocational training should equip inmates with the skills to compete effectively in the labor market upon release. A number of States have established open-air farms for inmates that permit them to work in the community and maintain community ties with their families. The State of Rajasthan permits inmates' families to live with them while in custody. Education should bring improvement in inmate attitudes as well as knowledge, while recreational services are essential to the good morale and positive mental outlook of inmates. Aftercare services that help the inmate to adjust to society upon release should include educating the public about the needs of the ex-offender.