Motivation, persistence and perseverance are the distinct traits
of determined and dedicated individuals who can make things happen.
It's always possible, even when the task is awesome - transforming
the mindset of human beings.
Located in India's capital, New Delhi, Tihar is one of the largest
prisons in the world. Within a prison complex of over 200 acres are
housed over 9,700 inmates - men, women, adolescents, children; Indians
and foreigners. They comprise unconvicted alleged offenders, convicts
and remandees.
Tihar was a limping, languishing institution, condemned by the media,
and its inmates were isolated from the community, exploited, used
and abused, yet 'housed'.
Dr Kiran Bedi was appointed Inspector General of Tihar Prison in 1993.
She brought about fundamental changes, giving a human face to the
administrative structure and creating an exemplary system covering
every possible aspect of prison management. The whole objective was
to collectively and individually manage the transition from a moribund
system to a responsive and sensitive administration. Hence her efforts
unfolded the process of reformation involving prison administration,
prisoners and the community, toward one common goal - Correction through
a collective approach.
Dr Bedi's account is enhanced by input from the prisoners themselves,
expressing their feelings in letters and sketches, in petitions and
poetry. This book is a graphic portrayal of an holistic process of
conversion, a metamorphosis from criminality to humanity, achieved
within a restrictive legal framework. |