Manipur Prisons Department Marks 134 Years With Reform Push

Imphal: Manipur officials celebrated the first-ever Raising Day for the Prisons and Correctional Services Department on Monday. The event at Imphal’s Central Prison honored 134 years of history since the facility opened in 1892. Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh called for a shift from simple confinement to active rehabilitation.

The Chief Minister noted that the state must treat inmates with perspective. "A person kept behind bars should not be considered a convict unless proven guilty in accordance with law," Singh said. He wants prisons to become institutions for moral correction.

Structural failure plagues the century-old Imphal site. The Chief Minister confirmed plans for reconstruction and modernization to address its poor condition. He also promised to fix a deep manpower shortage. New hires will arrive through direct recruitment or the state’s Die-in-Harness Scheme.

Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam credited the department’s newfound recognition for the celebration. He praised the staff for maintaining security and discipline. The event also honored S.K. Bhadrika, Superintendent of Manipur Central Jail, who received a medal for his work. Bhadrika previously earned the President's Correctional Service Medal for Distinguished Service in 2024.

DGP of Nagaland Rupin Sharma attended the ceremony alongside Manipur officials including DGP (Prisons) Arvind Kumar and ADGP I.K. Muivah. The department hosted a 5-km run earlier that day to mark the milestone. Winners received prizes during the formal program.