Women prison inmates discharged

Dharma SRI ABEYRATNE

The Rehabilitation and Prison Reforms Ministry discharged 11 women prison inmates yesterday since they were not financially strong to pay their fines imposed by courts for minor offences.

These eleven inmates were imposed fines for engaging in drug smuggling and activities related to illicit liquor. The inmates were in prison for a few months to three years since they were unable to pay fines. The Ministries of Rehabilitation and Prison Reforms and Child Development and Women's Affairs took initiatives to pay the fines for these eleven inmates who were in the Welikada prison. Inmates were due to pay Rs 4,500 to Rs 40,000 as fines. With the assistance of several individuals, chairman of the Women's Committee Dr. Nila Gunasekara has paid a sum of Rs 133,000 as fines for these inmates.

The inmates were handed over to the Additional Government Agents (AGAs) who will monitor the women after they are inducted to society. Regional officers of the Child Development and Women's Affairs Ministry will submit a report to the AGAs every two weeks.

The report will include their financial and social status which will help lead them to a better lifestyle.

Meanwhile, the Ministry will assist these women to start self employment projects.