Karnataka Govt Orders Premature Release of 31 Life Convicts from State Prisons

NewsFlash Daily™

12 March 

Prisoners from Bengaluru, Vijayapura, Ballari and other jails to be freed after review by a high-level committee under the remission policy

Bengaluru: The Karnataka government has ordered the premature release of 31 life convicts lodged in various prisons across the state, granting them relief based on their good conduct during imprisonment.

According to an official order issued, the prisoners will be released on March 13 after authorities review their behaviour and rehabilitation prospects.

The decision was taken with the aim of allowing prisoners who have demonstrated reformation and discipline to reintegrate into society and rebuild their lives.

High-Level Committee Reviews Cases

The decision follows a recommendation submitted by the Director General of the Department of Prisons and Correctional Services to the state government.

A high-level committee chaired by the Principal Secretary of the Home Department reviewed 54 cases of life convicts during a detailed meeting.

After evaluating each case, the committee recommended the release of 31 prisoners, while 21 applications were rejected. Additionally, two cases remain pending for approval from the Ministry of Home Affairs of India, officials said.

Constitutional Provision for Remission

Under the Constitution of India, state governors have the authority to grant remission, reduce sentences or pardon prisoners under specific conditions.

Officials said the current decision aligns with the government’s policy of rehabilitation, which aims to help long-term prisoners who show genuine remorse and improved conduct return to society.

Authorities believe that such measures encourage reform and support the reintegration of prisoners into their families and communities.

Prisons from Which Inmates Will Be Released

The prisoners will be released from several correctional facilities across Karnataka:

1. Bengaluru Central Prison – 14 inmates
2. Vijayapura prison – 5 inmates
3. Ballari prison – 3 inmates
4. Mysuru prison – 2 inmates
5. Belagavi prison – 2 inmates
6. Kalaburagi prison – 2 inmates
7. Shivamogga (men’s and women’s sections) – 2 inmates
8. Dharwad prison – 1 inmate

Officials emphasised that the release is being granted solely based on good behaviour and rehabilitation potential.

The government said such decisions are part of broader efforts to encourage reform within prisons and offer reformed inmates a second chance at life.