A one-day awareness programme on the theme “Legal Awareness for Women Inmates” was held today at Manipur Central Jail, Imphal, jointly organised by the Manipur State Commission for Women (MSCW) and the jail authorities.

Chairperson of MSCW, Thumlip Tiningpham Monsang, said the initiative aimed to hear grievances of inmates firsthand and recommend necessary actions to the Government. She noted that the visit also sought to assess living conditions and provide a platform for inmates to express their concerns.

Urging inmates to report any form of mistreatment, including sexual harassment, she assured that such issues would be addressed seriously. She further emphasised the Commission’s commitment to the welfare and mental well-being of inmates, adding that activities like yoga and meditation were introduced to help them attain peace of mind.

Member Secretary of MSCW and Additional Director (IPR), Government of Manipur, W. Phajatombi Devi, encouraged inmates to openly share their grievances, particularly on basic amenities such as water, electricity and healthcare, assuring intervention with concerned departments. She also advised inmates to seek clarity on their legal rights and highlighted the importance of mental well-being through yoga and meditation. Yoga trainers were engaged to demonstrate basic techniques during the programme.

Superintendent of Police (Jail), S.K. Bhadrika, stated that special care is being taken to ensure the well-being of women inmates, including provision of nutritious food and regular monitoring of health and hygiene. He added that communication facilities are available to help inmates stay connected with the outside world, including for foreign nationals.

The programme included technical sessions on inmates’ rights by advocate Rajkishore Thiyam and on rights of pregnant and nursing mothers and detention laws by advocate Santa Khaidem. A yoga and meditation demonstration was conducted by trainer Indubala Mayanglambam. MSCW Member Sk. Sophia was also present at the event.