Raigarh District Jail is facilitating fasting for 47 inmates during the Sharadiya Navratri. The inmates include 40 men and 7 women, who have expressed their wish to participate in the religious observance. Jail officials have confirmed that special arrangements have been made to support the fasting inmates. Out of the total 800 inmates, the 47 fasting individuals will experience a dedicated environment for their religious practices. Thirty of these inmates will be observing a fast for the entire duration of the nine-day Navratri festival. The remaining seventeen will fast on the fifth and eighth days of the festival. To ensure a conducive environment for prayer and devotional activities, separate barracks have been provided. The jail administration has also made arrangements for their dietary needs, providing them with fruit-based meals during their fast. In addition to dietary considerations, the jail has made provisions for worship materials, the installation of a kalash, and the use of musical instruments for devotional singing. Efforts have been made to create a clean and peaceful environment throughout the jail premises to enhance the spiritual experience of the inmates. The jail management’s initiative aims to respect the inmates’ religious beliefs while promoting a reformative approach. The superintendent of the jail has stated that these religious events contribute to the development of a positive mindset and self-reflection among the inmates, potentially aiding in their rehabilitation.
