Quetta: Balochistan government has delegated significant powers to divisional and district administrations under the Balochistan Prisons and Prisoners Correctional Service Act, 2026, aimed at making the provincial prison system more effective, transparent, accountable, and aligned with human rights standards.
According to a notification issued by Chief Inspector of Prisons and Special Secretary Home, Abdul Salam Khan Achakzai, all Commissioners and Deputy Commissioners across the province have been designated as Inspecting Authorities. Under this arrangement, they will conduct both regular and surprise inspections of prisons and other detention facilities within their respective jurisdictions.
The inspections will focus on evaluating the provision of health, education, sanitation, food, and other basic facilities to inmates. Any deficiencies identified during inspections will be addressed through immediate corrective measures, while inspection reports must be submitted to the relevant authorities within seven working days.
Officials said that this initiative is part of Chief Minister Balochistan Mir Sarfraz Bugti’s vision of prison reforms, which seeks to transform prisons from mere centers of punishment into institutions of rehabilitation, correction, and respect for human dignity. The move is expected to strengthen welfare measures for prisoners, safeguard fundamental human rights, and enhance transparency, accountability, and effective oversight within prison administration.