Inmates seek end to troubles in Ramadan
During Ramadan, we try our best to provide for the prisoners. What people eat outside the jail, we try to bring inside for the inmates.” Lt-Col Mohammed Al Falasi, director, supplies and services, General Dept of Punitive and Correctional Establishments
dubai — Ramadan is so special to Muslims around the world, even those who are behind bars. And for them, it takes on a special meaning, giving hope.
Located in Al Aweer desert, the Dubai Police’s Punitive and Correctional Establishment has more than 5,000 inmates. It includes three prisons — central jail for men, women’s prison and violation prison for minor cases.
“There’s a different atmosphere in jail during the holy month. The inmates are quieter, there is hardly any incident or offence and people are generally in a good mood during this holy month,” said Lt-Colonel Mohammed Thani Al Falasi, director of supplies and services at the General Department of Punitive and Correctional Establishments. “Inmates spend their time praying, doing things for God, enjoying the food at night, and imbibing good morals,” he added.
While Muslims are provided Iftar and Suhoor everyday, the nonMuslim inmates receive their usual three meals a day. They are also given the opportunity to join the Muslim inmates for Iftar and Suhoor. In addition, all the inmates have the option to buy food from the prison canteen.
“During Ramadan, we try our best to provide for the prisoners. What people eat outside the jail, we try to bring inside for the inmates. But the problem is that they miss their families. They don’t get to see their children. We hope that next year they get to celebrate Ramadan with their family and children,” he added.
Prisons for reform
Hate the crime, not the criminal. Jail authorities are making the lives of inmates meaningful by reuniting them with families and reaching out to them in this season of giving and repentance. This ‘inclusion’ of prisoners shows how society has grown and matured. The spirit of reconciliation is the first step in reforming prisoners who will return home as better people.
The prison has a set menu for the inmates for Iftar and Suhoor that includes biryani, chicken, beef, fish, vegetables, juice, dates, tea, coffee and yoghurt. The menu changes everyday. There’s also no limit on the food an inmate can eat.
“During Ramadan, there’s a common feeling among Muslims. I don’t look at them as prisoners, I look at them as human beings who are sitting together as family, friends and ending their fast. It’s a warm feeling. Not everyone here is a criminal, there are a lot of great people and I hope they get the chance to get back to the community and live a better life,” he added.