JAMMU, JANUARY 27, 2026 — In a move to safeguard the rights and living conditions of inmates, the Jammu & Kashmir High Court Legal Services Committee (J&K HCLSC) and the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) Jammu conducted a joint inspection of Central Jail Kot Bhalwal on Tuesday.
Under the guidance of R. N. Watal, Chairman of DLSA Jammu, Secretary J&K HCLSC Sunil Kumar and Secretary DLSA Jammu Maleeka Sharma visited the facility to assess the well-being of under-trial and convicted prisoners. The visit focused on a comprehensive review of jail infrastructure, including the Prison Legal Aid Clinic, virtual courtrooms, healthcare facilities, and the prisoner calling system, ensuring that all inmates have access to essential services and legal recourse.
A key objective of the inspection was the identification of eligible candidates for the “Support to Poor Prisoners Scheme” and the “Policy Guidelines for Remission/Premature Release of Life Convicts.” The judicial officers directed prison authorities to compile a list of eligible inmates for review by the Empowered Committee, facilitating potential legal relief for those in need.
While interacting with inmates in the presence of the Senior Superintendent, the team also identified specific areas within the jail premises that require renovation. The jail administration was instructed to coordinate with the relevant authorities to initiate these repairs promptly, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to maintaining humane living conditions and a functional rehabilitative environment.
