Nitish amnesty pitch

Patna: Chief minister Nitish Kumar, while attending the 4th governing council meeting of Niti Aayog on Sunday, suggested a general amnesty for people jailed for petty crimes, women prisoners or prisoners above 60 years of age, to celebrate the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi next year.

“In India, there has been a tradition of amnesty on special occasions. On the occasion of the 150th birth anniversary of Gandhi ji, it would be our suggestion that barring the undertrial prisoners and criminals convicted or involved in serious crimes, amnesty may be considered for petty-natured crimes,” Nitish said.

He added that women prisoners or who are above 60 years of age may be given priority and “if suitable changes are required in the law, the same may be considered.”

Nitish was giving his suggestions as the Centre had sought them from various states connected to Mahatma Gandhi on how to celebrate his 150th birth anniversary.

Gandhi had tested Satyagraha in the country for the first time at Champaran in Bihar to bring relief to farmers oppressed and forced by British planters to cultivate indigo on a fixed portion of their land (three of every 20 cottah of land, also known as Tinkathiya system), instead of foodgrains they needed for survival.

Nitish added that Gandhi had said his life was his message and following it the state government implemented Bapu Aapke Dwar programme to propagate his ideals, thoughts and views to every household. “Folders containing his messages have been distributed to 150 lakh households in the state. Similar initiative can be taken up across the country on the occasion of the birth anniversary,” Nitish said.

Courtesy: The Telegraph