MARDAN: Special Assistant to the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister for Prisons, Iftikhar Ullah Jan, visited Central Jail Mardan to review prison administration, healthcare, rehabilitation, and inmate welfare initiatives as part of the provincial government’s ongoing prison reform program.
Accompanied by Inspector General of Prisons Rehan Gul Khattak, the special assistant received a detailed briefing from Superintendent Sami Ullah Khan on healthcare services, vocational training, mental health support, and rehabilitation programs. Officials said the visit focused on assessing inmate facilities and monitoring the implementation of reforms across the prison.
Healthcare Services Expanded for Inmates
Prison officials said providing quality healthcare remains a priority at Central Jail Mardan. The facility offers specialist medical care, ambulance services, a Qureshi Clinic, ECG and ultrasound services, a micro laboratory, and modern dental equipment.
Regular screening for HIV, Hepatitis C, and Hepatitis B is also being carried out, while psychiatrists have been appointed to provide psychotherapy and counseling for inmates requiring mental health support.
Officials added that a Drug Rehabilitation Center has been established within the prison hospital, where inmates receive treatment supported by the availability of essential medicines.
Vocational Training and Family Support
According to the prison administration, the jail’s Vocational Training Center has trained 1,337 inmates since 2018 in a range of technical and professional skills.
Training programs include computer education, electrical work, Solar PV technology, and other diploma courses designed to improve employment opportunities after release.
To improve family access, the prison has also introduced a Visitor Facilitation Center, privacy booths, and e-visit facilities.
Inspection of Prison Facilities
During the visit, Iftikhar Ullah Jan inspected various sections of the prison and met inmates to seek feedback on living conditions, healthcare, and rehabilitation services.
He also held separate meetings with female and juvenile inmates to discuss their concerns before visiting the prison hospital and Drug Rehabilitation Center to review patient care.
Officials said inmates receiving treatment expressed satisfaction with the healthcare services available.
Government Reaffirms Commitment to Prison Reforms
Speaking after the visit, Iftikhar Ullah Jan said prison reforms are progressing across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa under the vision of Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, with a focus on transforming prisons into rehabilitation and correctional institutions.
He said the provincial government remains committed to protecting inmates’ constitutional and legal rights while improving healthcare, vocational training, and rehabilitation programs aimed at supporting their successful reintegration into society.
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