Excelsior Sports Correspondent
BHADARWAH, Sept 6: In a groundbreaking initiative inspired by Supreme Court directives, Bhadarwah District Jail has transformed its premises into a cricket stadium, hosting a tape ball cricket tournament for inmates. This month-long round-robin tournament, which began on Independence Day, culminated today with intense matches that saw six inmate teams competing for the top spot.
The tournament took place on an overcast day, with light drizzles providing a perfect backdrop for the games. Secretary of the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), Ramesh Lal, graced the final as the chief guest, while Jail Superintendent Hamid-ullah Naik presided over the prize distribution ceremony.
Ramesh Lal highlighted the role of sports in reform and rehabilitation, emphasizing its ability to instill positive traits such as discipline, concentration and crisis management. “Imprisonment can lead to negative thought processes. Through cricket, we aim to redirect these thoughts and teach valuable life skills,” Lal said.
Superintendent Naik expressed satisfaction with the enthusiastic participation of inmates, noting that the primary goal is to prepare them for a productive life post-release. This innovative approach to inmate rehabilitation underscores a commitment to turning incarceration into a pathway for positive change.