In this Raj jail, rape-accused becomes RJ
JAIPUR: We are trying to introduce similar initiatives in other jails in the state as well
SUNIL KUMAR MEHROTRA, DGP, Jail
He is in jail, but Ajit Singh Shaktawat is enjoying life: he has become a radio jockey in Rajasthan’s first prison with a community radio programme for its inmates.
The 24-year-old is animated, ready with repartees and witty one-liners as he fields song requests from the 350 inmates.
Behind the high walls of Bhilwara district jail, Shaktawat on Thursday conducted the inaugural episode of ‘Jail Wani’, a unique community radio programme for jail inmates.
The jail has been Shaktawat’s home for the past four years.
“Shaktawat is a former student leader from Mandalgarh in Bhilwara. He was acquainted with a girl who later committed suicide, resulting in her parents filing a rape case against him. Since then he is an under-trial accused in the jail,” said Suman Maliwal, deputy superintendent, Bhilwara district jail.
She added that Shaktawat is at the forefront of every activity inside the prison and also got his bachelors and masters degree studying in the jail.
“We have installed transmitters and have created a control room inside the jail from where Jail Wani is conducted. At present the programme will be for 1 hour a day,” Maliwal said.
She said the programmes will include patriotic songs, sessions about history of Rajasthan, jokes along with retro and devotional songs during its 1pm-2pm slot.
“We started this initiative on Thursday and it has already been a huge success and become popular among inmates. We have installed speakers in each barracks so that both male and female inmates can hear the programme,” said Maliwal.
She added that the programme will be anchored by people from among the inmates.
“We are in the process of selecting more people such as Shaktawat who are interested in being a radio jockey. Shaktawat is also the legal teacher appointed by the court and is a bridge between the administration and the inmates, resulting in better communication,” she added.