Member Secretary of NSLSA Neiko Akami and others during the inspection of the District Jail Tuensang on March 4. (Photo Courtesy: PRA NSLSA)
Tuensang, March 7 (MExN): In a bid to review the welfare and legal aid facilities for inmates, the Member Secretary of the Nagaland State Legal Services Authority (NSLSA), Neiko Akami, led an inspection team to the District Jail in Tuensang on March 4.
The visit was conducted in collaboration with the Tuensang District Legal Services Authority (TDLSA). The team included Judicial Magistrate Kumdilong Kessen (NJS), TDLSA Secretary L Bumeng Khiam, Superintendent of District Jail Mokokchung P Herola, Retainer Lawyer Antimangyang Chang, and officials from the Chief and Assistant Legal Aid Defence Counsel (LADC).
During the inspection, the team held discussions with jail officials, including Superintendent Aonochet Aier and Assistant Jailor Y Chubasangle Chang. The review covered the status of inmates, security arrangements, and the availability of legal aid services.
The inspection revealed that the CCTV system in the jail was non-functional. The Member Secretary recommended the immediate installation of surveillance cameras to bolster security. Additionally, he suggested the construction of a western toilet and a proper kitchen in the female ward to address hygiene and welfare concerns.
The team also noted that the jail’s mini truck, in service for nearly 20 years, had broken down. Recommendations were made for its condemnation and replacement.
Interacting with the inmates, Akami encouraged them and informed them about their legal rights. He highlighted that free legal services are available under the Legal Services Authorities Act for those who are financially constrained and unable to afford legal representation.
According to PRA, NSLSA, the jail currently houses 13 undertrial prisoners (UTPs) and four convicts. Of these, five inmates have already been provided legal aid, while three others have been identified as needing legal assistance.
The Member Secretary directed the jail administration to address the infrastructural gaps, security concerns, and welfare issues on a priority basis. He also instructed the Legal Aid Defence Counsel system to ensure continuous monitoring and provide legal aid to all eligible inmates.
