Kota:Prison where nobody wants to land themselves and those who are languishing in jail would be almost ostracised by society. Especially relatives will distance themselves from that family out of fear and social stigma. But all prisoners are not hardcore some might have committed the crime to protect themselves or their near and dear ones. In that case, those who are known to them will embrace them while others may not. But in reality, those who have been imprisoned, find it difficult to eke out their livelihood as nobody will offer them jobs. But as individuals, they may find it difficult to get jobs whereas when they work in a group there is a chance for them to get work.
Taking a cue from it, prisoners from Kota jail are being trained to form a band to perform at weddings. This has come after jail authorities provided them with an opportunity to work at the Kota central jail-run petrol pump. With training in performing with musical instruments, the inmates can seek job opportunities after their tenure is over and start afresh.
Inmates serving in Kota Jail on charges of murder, rape, theft, robbery, drug trafficking, and others are given this opportunity based on their record in the prison. The successful attempt at running a petrol pump by the inmates gave a boost to the jail authorities and new areas of employment are being thought of. The band curated will be open for booking of marriages and other occasions soon after they complete their training.
Rajendra Gurjar, who is serving in a murder case, says that the jail administration has given him a good opportunity at the petrol pump. "Earlier we had to go to another place for work, but now we have got work nearby. I have served 11 years, and now 3 years of sentence are left," he quipped. Another prisoner Jafar Jalaluddin, a resident of Suket, says that he is serving a life term. He looks forward to completing his tenure and working in a similar set-up after gaining experience from here.