THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The state cabinet has decided to release the prisoners who have completed half of their sentence among the first-time offenders sentenced to up to 10 years in prison. However, those sentenced for serious crimes will continue to remain in prison. Hundreds of prisoners, including those who went to jail in political cases, will benefit. The decision of the cabinet is based on the Supreme Court directive. Concession will be given in the name of good conduct. The aim is to rehabilitate the prisoners into good citizens by mentally transforming them.

Those who have completed half the sentence without receiving any special relaxation will be considered for relaxation. Those who have previously received relaxations on special occasions like Independence Day and Kerala Piravi will not get the benefit.

The list of the prisoners who will be given relaxation will be prepared by a committee comprising the Home Secretary, Law Secretary, Superintendent of Police and Jail DGP. The recommendation of the cabinet and the approval of the Governor will be required for giving relaxation. A report submitted by the police about the background of the offender will also be considered.

The aim is to transform prisons into correctional and rehabilitation centres. The Supreme Court had made the direction after assessing that the tendency of first-time offenders to commit crimes will disappear when they interact with their families and society.

• First-time offenders getting released will be given strict directions not to commit crimes in future.
• Those released will be strictly monitored.
• Violation of the conditions can result in arrest and imprisonment.
• The nature of the crime, age of the prisoner and family background will be considered.
• No relaxation for those arrested for sexual assault and drug-related cases
• There is no relaxation for those convicted in rape, terrorism, POCSO and narcotics cases, those convicted by courts of other states, foreign nationals, those convicted under TADA, POTA, UAPA, National Security Act, Official Secrets Act, air-trafficking cases and treason.