Mumbai: First Female Inmate Takes the Mic as Radio Jockey in Byculla District Jail
Mubarak Ansari
Mumbai, 24th December 2023: In a groundbreaking move, the Maharashtra Prisons Department welcomed a new era of inmate engagement as the Additional Director General of Police and Inspector General, Amitabh Gupta, inaugurated the “FM Radio Center” on December 22, in the Byculla District Jail. This marks the first time a female inmate, referred to as a “bandi,” has assumed the role of a radio jockey in the prison system.
The historic event unfolded with the participation of Byculla District Jail (Female) detainee Shraddha Chowgule, who took on the role of a Radio Jockey (RJ) in the newly established FM Center. During an exclusive interview with ADG Gupta on Radio FM, Shraddha discussed the ongoing reforms and facilities within the prison department.
ADG Gupta elaborated on the facilities provided to prisoners, emphasizing a commitment to safeguarding human rights and fostering a positive environment within the prison system. Foreign prisoners, part of the discussion, expressed gratitude for initiatives like e-Mulakat and other facilities introduced in the prison.
The FM Radio Center initiative aims to alleviate the mental strain experienced by inmates and redirect their focus towards positivity. Female convicts will serve as radio jockeys, presenting a variety of activities, including devotional songs, bhajans, and spiritual programs in the morning. From 12:00 PM to 03:00 PM, Marathi and Hindi songs will be featured, along with the “Aapaki Farmaish” program tailored for the inmates.
While FM radio centers have been established in various central jails like Yerwada, Nagpur, Amravati, and Kolhapur, where male inmates have taken on the role of radio jockeys, the Byculla District Jail initiative breaks new ground by providing women inmates with the opportunity to showcase their skills. The program aims to train several female convicts as radio jockeys, enhancing their employability prospects upon release.
The inauguration ceremony saw the presence of Deputy Inspector General of Prisons Yogesh Desai, Superintendent of Mumbai Central Jail Harshad Ahirrao, and Byculla District Jail Superintendent Vikas Rajnalwar, among other dignitaries.
This innovative approach to inmate rehabilitation marks a positive step forward in recognizing the potential for skill development and empowerment within the prison system. The FM Radio Center is expected to contribute to the holistic growth and rehabilitation of female inmates, providing them with valuable skills for a hopeful future beyond incarceration.
