TN REVIEWS DRUG SMUGGLING THROUGH FRUITS IN PRISONS, LEGAL AID AND HOSPITAL CARETimes News NetworkChennai: Following allegations that narcotic drugs were being smuggled into prisons through fruits and other items brought by visitors, law minister C T R Nirmal Kumar on Sunday said the state was planning to modernise screening systems and examine whether frequently supplied items could be sourced internally through prison-run facilities.After inspecting facilities with senior officials at Puzhal prison, the minister said around 700 visitors enter prisons in the state daily carrying snacks, fruits and other articles for inmates, making screening a challenge. “We are studying what type of modern equipment and technologies can be procured to strengthen screening and prevent narcotics from entering prisons,” he said.Officials are also examining whether fruits, snacks and clothes can be distributed through prison-managed outlets to reduce material from outside entering jails. “Frequently supplied items may be arranged through prison-run systems itself,” he said.The minister said the state was reviewing facilities across all 13 central prisons and other jails as part of a wider modernisation exercise. Plans include digitising visitor records, inmate details and medical records, besides strengthening CCTV surveillance and power backup systems.He also said the government had sought details of remand prisoners who remained in jail beyond expected periods and was examining additional legal aid support for inmates without family or financial backing. “We are looking at how legal aid and support can be extended to remand prisoners who have crossed their remand periods without any support,” he said.The minister said prison hospitals and medical blocks were inspected and additional medical equipment requirements were being assessed. “Medical facilities should be available immediately whenever inmates require support,” he said.
