Overcrowding Crisis in Uttar Pradesh Prisons: Expansion Plans Unveiled

Uttar Pradesh prisons are currently overcrowded, housing 89,256 inmates despite an official capacity of 76,475. Jail Administration and Reform Minister Dara Singh Chauhan announced plans to alleviate the issue with new and under-construction jails that will increase capacity significantly.

Uttar Pradesh's prison system is facing a significant overcrowding crisis, with inmate numbers exceeding official capacity by over 12,000. The Jail Administration and Reform Minister, Dara Singh Chauhan, disclosed these figures during a session in the state Assembly.

Addressing the assembly, Chauhan outlined future plans to combat this issue. As of January 31, there are 76 operational jails, but the completion of eight more jails currently under construction will soon offer room for 9,165 additional inmates. Furthermore, 16 new jails across 15 districts are set to provide 21,408 more spaces.

Chauhan assured the legislative body that additional barracks are being constructed to progressively increase the prison capacity, aiming to address the pressing challenge of overcrowding.

(With inputs from agencies.)