RAWALPINDI: The Punjab Home Department has announced that 150 prisoners in different jails of the province have completed their sentences. However, they remain in jail because they cannot afford to pay their fines.
According to the statement, Rs 100 million is needed to secure their release. Philanthropists can help by donating Zakat and charity funds to pay these fines.
Last year, Rs 170 million was collected through the same initiative, helping release 226 prisoners. This year, donors are again requested to contribute to the Punjab Prison Foundation account so that these prisoners can reunite with their families on Eid.
Citizens can contact Punjab Prisons or call the 24-hour helpline at 0429200498 for details. Donations should be made only to the Punjab Prison Foundation’s BoP account (PK37BPUN6510000418900018).
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The Home Department has clarified that no jail officer or staff member is authorized to collect donations directly. Citizens should not give funds to any unauthorized person, organization, or NGO.
Meanwhile, the Punjab government will soon issue a notification reducing prisoners’ sentences by 90 days before Eid. However, according to sources, this relief will not be given to prisoners convicted of serious crimes.
Prisoners who have already received sentence reductions will not get further relief. The sentence reduction will also not apply to those involved in anti-state activities.
Convicts of sectarianism, drug crimes, rape, robbery, and kidnapping will not be eligible for the relief. Similarly, prisoners convicted of treason and espionage will not receive any reduction in their sentences. Sources say an official notification will be issued soon.
