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Prisoners are easier to isolate than the general population. Their interaction with the outside world is limited. They even communicate with their families and friends on intercom. But that does not mean they are completely safe from the contagious virus (SARS-CoV-2) since jail staff come into regular contact with those behind the bars. If they do so without proper precautions, it could ravage the prison population.
Moreover, jails in Pakistan are overcrowded. According to a report presented in November 2019 in Supreme Court, there are 77,275 inmates against the capacity of 57,742 in 114 prisons across the country. In addition, as per recent data submitted in Islamabad High Court around 2500 prisoners are already suffering from chronic and contagious diseases.
If something happens to the inmates then who will be responsible?
However, the only precaution to curb the contagious disease-COVID-19 is to ensure social distancing and cleanliness. But both things seem impossible in the crowd excessively jails which also lacks proper sanitation facilities.
Indeed, every single life is precious and it is responsibility of the government, prisons and districts authorities to take immediate steps to ensure the safety of prisoners.
Most unfortunate are those who are detained without even proven guilty – such as NAB prisoners – and then come those who are in jail either because of delayed justice system of the country or are unable to pay the fine imposed by the courts. Heavy fee of lawyer could be another reason.
Truly, the steps taken by federal and provincial governments to control the spreading of virus and make sure the safety of citizen are commendable. But prisoners cannot be ignored. Suppose if something happens to the inmates then who will be responsible for the losses – government or institutions such as of NAB?
About the Author:
Khanesh Kumar Rathi is a computer engineer and blogger from Chelhar, Tharparkar. He can be reached at rathijk55@gmail.com
