MP Jails Overcrowded: Carrying 38% More Inmates Than Capacity, Third Highest in India

Madhya Pradesh’s prison system is facing a severe overcrowding crisis, ranking as the third most congested state in the country after Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. Recent incidents, such as the escape of three dangerous inmates from Khachrod Sub-Jail in Ujjain, have raised serious questions about prison security. The issue was highlighted in the Rajya Sabha by Union Minister of State for Home, Bandi Sanjay Kumar.

Overcrowding Statistics:
Despite having a larger number of prisons than UP and Bihar combined—132 jails in MP compared to 77 in Uttar Pradesh and 59 in Bihar—the state’s prisons are overburdened. Madhya Pradesh prisons have a total capacity of 29,875 inmates, yet 45,543 prisoners are currently lodged, reflecting 38% overcapacity. In comparison, Uttar Pradesh houses 98,849 inmates against a capacity of 65,866, and Bihar has 53,076 inmates for 49,019 slots.

Distribution of Prisons in MP:
According to state data presented by Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, MP has 133 operational jails, including 11 central jails, 41 district jails, 73 sub-jails, and 8 open jails. The total capacity across these jails is 30,764 inmates, while the current population is approximately 44,000.

Efforts to Address the Issue:
Director General of Prisons and Correctional Services, Varun Kapoor, acknowledged overcrowding as a major challenge, noting that MP’s 38% excess inmate population exceeds the national average of 32%. He stated that 120 new barracks are under construction to reduce the overcrowding and bring the inmate population in line with national standards. Kapoor added that inmate numbers fluctuate daily, and as of Friday, MP prisons had around 42,000 inmates against a total capacity of 30,364.

Security Concerns:
The escape from Khachrod Sub-Jail has intensified concerns regarding security measures and management practices within overcrowded facilities. Authorities are reviewing protocols to prevent further incidents and ensure the safety of both inmates and staff.