Sisters tie rakhis on brothers' wrists inside Uttar Pradesh prison walls

Pratapgarh District Jail in Uttar Pradesh witnessed emotional scenes on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan as 428 family members met with 322 inmates in a specially organized event. The celebration highlighted the enduring bonds between brothers and sisters, even within the confines of prison walls, as sisters tied sacred threads on their incarcerated brothers' wrists and prayed for their bright future.

Following directives from the Honourable Minister of Prisons Department, Uttar Pradesh Government, and headquarters, the jail administration made comprehensive and well-organized arrangements to facilitate smooth meetings between prisoners and their relatives. The Crime Prevention Committee, Pratapgarh, set up tents at the main gate providing seating, drinking water, and refreshments for visiting family members. Under the leadership of District Secretary Sujeet Srivastava, volunteers welcomed and guided visitors throughout the day.

Inside the jail premises, proper seating arrangements were made at the meeting venue for sisters, mothers, and other relatives. Traditional items including puja thalis, roli, akshat, rakhis, and sweets were provided in keeping with Raksha Bandhan customs. The meetings were conducted in five shifts until 2 PM, involving 203 male and 5 female inmates. Among the visitors were 317 women, 2 men, and 109 children who came to meet their loved ones.

Jail Superintendent Rishabh Dwivedi and Jailer Virendra Kumar Verma distributed toffees and chocolates to children accompanying the women, boosting their spirits. Several poignant moments during the meetings moved everyone present. The entire staff, including Deputy Jailers Sharda Devi, Kamlesh Kumar, and Sumaiya Parveen, remained present throughout to ensure the festival was celebrated successfully with harmony, discipline, and family emotions at the district jail.