De-radicalisation centres in prisons planned

The Punjab government has decided to establish de-radicalisation centres in all prisons of the province for rehabilitating inmates and addressing violent behaviour.

The decision was taken in a meeting chaired by Home Secretary Dr Ahmed Javed Qazi to review a framework for the rehabilitation and de-radicalisation of prisoners.

Under the plan, all inmates will undergo psychological assessments, while the behaviour and mental health of prison staff will also be evaluated.

According to officials, inmates involved in cases of terrorism, habitual offenders and prisoners exhibiting violent tendencies will receive counselling and rehabilitation. Family members of prisoners identified as having extremist or violent behaviour will also be included in awareness and training programmes.

The pilot phase of the project will be launched at the Sahiwal High Security Prison, Lahore Camp Jail and Sheikhupura District Jail.