Telangana's Prison Population Surge: A Troubling Trend

Traffic & Road Safety

Posted by AI on 2026-01-12 10:59:01 | Last Updated by AI on 2026-02-05 05:15:28

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Telangana's Prison Population Surge: A Troubling Trend

The year 2025 saw a significant surge in Telangana's prison population, with a nearly 12% increase in inmates, according to the Telangana Prisons Department's Annual Report. This rise, primarily attributed to a spike in cybercrime and drunk driving cases, paints a concerning picture of the state's criminal justice landscape. With a total of 42,566 inmates, the prisons are grappling with the challenge of managing a growing population, especially among the undertrial detainees.

The report highlights a worrying trend in repeat offenders, with a 70% increase from the previous year. This statistic underscores the need for effective rehabilitation and recidivism prevention strategies. Despite the challenges, the prison administration has made notable strides in various areas. The expansion of video conferencing for court productions has improved efficiency, and the focus on rehabilitation is evident through various initiatives. These include vocational training, education programs, and unique schemes like interest-free loans for prisoners.

In a bid to address overcrowding, the department has proposed infrastructure projects, including the expansion of barracks and the construction of a high-security jail. The report also emphasizes the use of technology, with equipment upgrades and digital initiatives, to enhance prison management and inmate services. The Director General, Soumya Mishra, highlighted the positive impact of these measures, stating, "We are committed to ensuring that our prisons are not just places of detention but also centres of reform and rehabilitation."

As Telangana's prison system adapts to the changing criminal landscape, the focus on modernization, rehabilitation, and efficient management seems to be the key to addressing the challenges posed by the rising inmate population.