LAHORE: Punjab’s new jails family homes initiative gives inmates a chance to spend quality time with their families. The program allows prisoners serving more than five years to stay with their spouse and children under six for three consecutive days, up to three times a year.
Nabeela Shajar, 37, has been in Adiala Jail, Rawalpindi, for nearly nine years for a murder charge she denies. She says, “I have three daughters I haven’t seen in nine years. My eldest is 15 now. I also have a nine-year-old son born in this jail. Family homes would let me finally be close to my children.”
Adiala Jail has improved considerably over the years, thanks to the work of the organization Women Aid Trust. Nabeela helps as a nursery assistant, supporting early childhood education for inmates’ children. The jail also now features a computer lab, library, literacy classes, and skill development centers.
Another inmate, 30-year-old Zahra Mehak, serving a 25-year sentence, says she has seen many announcements about jail facilities that never materialized. “Programs promised for prisoners’ rehabilitation and labor never happened. Family homes are a real hope for emotional and social support,” she added.
The family homes include a private room, kitchen, and bathroom. Meals are provided free during the stay. Inmates or their spouses must submit a request to the jail superintendent, followed by written approval from the deputy commissioner.
Officials say these programs aim to reduce psychological, social, and emotional stress for prisoners and their families. According to Fozia Khalid of Women Aid Trust, these homes can help inmates reintegrate into society by teaching them skills and offering support during imprisonment.
Anila Ashraf from the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan emphasizes that family homes should be properly funded and actively maintained. “Repeated announcements without execution create false hope. Proper implementation is essential for protecting inmates’ rights,” she says.
The program currently operates in jails in Lahore, Multan, Faisalabad, and Rawalpindi. Authorities hope it will improve prisoners’ well-being and strengthen family bonds.
