During the Sharadiya Navratri festival, 47 inmates of Raigarh District Jail will observe fasts. The fasting inmates include 40 men and 7 women. Jail Superintendent G.S. Shauri shared that out of a total of 800 inmates, 47 have expressed their wish to fast during Navratri. Recognizing the faith and devotion of these inmates, the jail administration has made special arrangements. Of the fasting inmates, 30 will observe the fast for all nine days, while the remaining 17 will fast on the fifth and eighth days. Separate barracks have been arranged for them to facilitate peaceful worship and devotional activities. Their diet during the fast has also been taken care of. Instead of regular meals, they will be provided with a special diet of fruits. The Jail Superintendent stated that arrangements have also been made for worship materials, kalash sthapana (pot installation), and musical instruments for devotional singing. The jail premises have been kept clean and peaceful to allow the inmates to experience the religious atmosphere of Navratri. This effort by the jail management not only respects the religious sentiments of the inmates but also reflects a reformative approach. Superintendent Shauri mentioned that religious events instill positivity and self-reflection among the inmates, which can assist in their rehabilitation.
