Muslim inmates at Bhopal Central Jail will not have the opportunity for open family visits this Eid. The prison management has decided and posted notices around the premises. The reason cited for this decision is ongoing construction inside the jail. This decision has sparked discontent among inmates and their families, as open visits during festivals like Rakhi, Eid, and Diwali have been a longstanding tradition.
Currently, there are over 3500 inmates in the central jail. Superintendent Rakesh Bhangre stated, "Due to construction, open visits on Eid won't be possible this year. However, normal visitation arrangements remain intact."
A message circulating on social media reads, "Notice: Open visits on Eid are canceled, but normal visits will continue. By order of the Jail Superintendent."
Letter from Muslim Legislator to Jail DG
Opposing this decision, Congress MLA Arif Masood from Bhopal Central has sent a letter to the Jail DG expressing his concerns. He wrote, "For the past 40-45 years, open family visits during festivals have been customary, with no untoward incidents occurring during this time. This arrangement offers opportunities not just for Muslim families but also for those from the majority community to meet their relatives. The decision has led to resentment among inmates and their families. I urge you to kindly reconsider and ensure open visitation arrangements for Eid with compassion."
Source: aajtak
This is the first instance where the administration has restricted open festival visits due to construction. This decision has sparked conversations throughout the city, with many calling for the restoration of this tradition. All eyes are now on the response from the DGP and subsequent actions.
