J&K HC decides to release jail inmates on 90 days interim bail

Srinagar, May 18

The Jammu and Kashmir High Court has decided to release jail inmates in the UT on 90 days interim bail in view of the Supreme Court directions.

A high-powered committee, headed by Justice Ali Mohammad Magrey, took the decision to release all jail inmates as per the directions of the apex court in March, an official spokesman said.

“Justice Magrey directed the J&K legal services authority (JKLSA) to coordinate with the other two members of the committee to know about the category of convicts and under-trials, who could also be released, pursuant to the directions of the Supreme Court. “After the completion of this exercise, a report will be placed before the committee,” the spokesman said.

Justice Magrey also directed the Director General of Police (DGP), Prisons, to coordinate with the Health Department and ensure vaccination of inmates and the jail staff on priority.

Besides, the committee directed the jail authorities to take appropriate steps by keeping the frequently visited areas like kitchen, bathrooms, etc. hygienic and by ensuring that inmates and the staffers wore masks and maintained social-distancing. He also directed the Legal Service Institutions across the UT to provide services of Panel Lawyers to the inmates, who were eligible to be released from custody by moving applications on their behalf. The committee also called for the additional release of prisoners on paroles or interim bail orders for which the DGP and JKLSA member secretary were asked to work out modalities within the stipulated time. It is suggested the creation of additional or temporary accommodation within or outside jail complexes to ensure strict adherence to Covid Standard Operating Protocols (SOPs), spokesman added.A –IANS