Gujarat to release 143 prisoners on Diwali parole this year

Gujarat's prison administration will release 143 qualified prisoners on a 15-day parole during the upcoming Diwali celebrations, continuing a two-decade-old tradition aimed at providing festive relief to inmates and their families.

The state government has maintained this annual practice since 2003, granting temporary parole leave to eligible prisoners during the festival period. The initiative reflects efforts to balance rehabilitation with humanitarian considerations during significant cultural occasions.

Prisoners who meet specified eligibility criteria are considered for the parole scheme. The selection process typically evaluates factors such as conduct records, nature of offences, and security assessments to ensure community safety during the release period.

The 15-day parole window allows prisoners to reunite with their families and participate in Diwali festivities before returning to complete their sentences. Authorities maintain oversight mechanisms to ensure parolees comply with conditions and report back as scheduled.

This year's release of 143 prisoners aligns with Gujarat's established protocol for managing parole during major festivals, demonstrating the state's consistent approach toward prisoner welfare while maintaining security standards.