No Parole; Accused in drug cases can no longer be released without serving their sentences; Amendment in jail rules

Thiruvananthapuram: The state has decided to stop giving parole for individuals accused in drug cases. The decision was made following the amendment of the jail rules, which now disqualify those involved in such cases from receiving emergency parole. In response to the rising drug sales, the government has issued a new notification to enforce this change. As a result, individuals implicated in drug-related offenses will no longer be eligible for parole under any circumstances.

The prevalence of drug use and distribution among both school children and adults is on the rise. It has become evident that the current punishment measures are inadequate to address the escalating rates of such crimes. Moreover, data indicates that individuals who have been previously caught and incarcerated for drug-related offenses have a higher likelihood of recommitting these crimes once released on parole.

Considering these factors, the final decision has been reached to discontinue the practice of granting parole to individuals convicted of drug-related crimes. This change is aimed at preventing the potential mitigation of the seriousness of the offense through parole, as well as reducing the risk of repeat offenses. The focus now is on implementing more effective measures to curb drug-related activities and protect society from the escalating drug problem.

Furthermore, the government acknowledges that these drug-related issues can have far-reaching consequences, impacting the well-being and prospects of future generations. In response to this concern, the government has made the decision to amend the Kerala Prisons and Correctional Services Rules, 2014, by introducing a provision to revoke parole granted to offenders involved in drug-related crimes. The aim is to ensure that these individuals remain incarcerated until the completion of their entire sentence, effectively keeping them away from society to mitigate the potential harm they may cause. The notification emphasizes the importance of taking firm action to safeguard the welfare of the community and safeguard the prospects of future generations.