Chennai: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay continued his series of surprise inspections of government institutions on Friday by visiting Puzhal Central Prison, one of the largest prison complexes in India, and interacting directly with inmates.
During the inspection, Vijay reviewed the basic facilities available to prisoners, including food, medical care, rehabilitation and vocational training. He also sought feedback from inmates and enquired about their needs and concerns.
Vijay checks facilities and rehabilitation efforts
The Chief Minister inspected several facilities at Puzhal Central Prison-I, including the isolation ward, visitors’ hall, hospital, drug de-addiction and rehabilitation centre, classrooms, library and advanced computer training centre.
He also visited the high-security block and execution area.
At the vocational centre, Vijay examined products made by inmates, including iron racks used for storing vegetables, paper covers and office file boards. He also visited the handloom and tailoring sections and checked the quality of food being served to prisoners.
Direct interaction with inmates
Vijay spoke to prisoners during the visit and listened to their feedback. He enquired about their requirements and the facilities available to them.
The inspection placed particular attention on the conditions in which prisoners live and the opportunities available to them for rehabilitation and skill development.
Police station inspection follows prison visit
After visiting the prison, Vijay inspected the M-3 Puzhal police station. He sought details from the police inspector about its functioning and examined official records.
He also visited the sub-inspector’s room, computer room and prisoners’ room as part of the inspection.
Surprise visits bring government services under focus
The Puzhal visit is part of Vijay’s recent pattern of surprise inspections and direct interactions with people dependent on government services.
Around three months ago, he visited a government children’s hospital after a woman raised concerns about unhygienic conditions through a social media video. He spoke to mothers and assessed the situation personally.
He later visited a government hostel for Dalit students, interacting with resident students and listening to their concerns.
The latest inspection at Puzhal reflects the Chief Minister’s continued emphasis on personally reviewing public institutions and hearing from those who use government services.
The inspection was attended by senior officials of the Prisons and Correctional Services Department, including Additional Director General of Police Dr Sandeep Rai Rathore, Chennai Range Deputy Inspector General T Palani, Superintendent Krishnaraj and other senior officials.