About One-Day Awareness on “Protection of Prisoners’
Raipur, October 6, 2025 — Hidayatullah National Law University (HNLU), Raipur, in collaboration with the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), Raipur, successfully conducted a One-Day Awareness Workshop on “Protection of Prisoners’ Human Rights” at the Central Jail, Raipur, on October 6, 2025.
The initiative was organized under the Department of Justice, Ministry of Law and Justice, Government of India, as part of HNLU’s ongoing efforts to promote access to justice, human rights awareness, and social responsibility among legal professionals in training.
Empowering Inmates Through Legal Awareness
The workshop aimed to educate prisoners about their legal rights and entitlements under the Constitution of India, the Prisons Act, the Model Prison Manual, and the recently enacted Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023. Interactive sessions were led by faculty members and student associates of the HNLU Pro Bono Club, along with DLSA Raipur officials.
These sessions focused on key topics such as legal aid, access to justice, rehabilitation opportunities, and the protection of human dignity for those in custody. The discussions aimed to enhance inmates’ understanding of their fundamental rights and foster a sense of empowerment and reform.
Leadership and Commitment to Legal Outreach
Dr. Parvesh Rajput, Faculty Coordinator of the HNLU Pro Bono Club, highlighted that “legal literacy serves as a powerful tool for reform and empowerment.” He emphasized that the workshop reflects the continuous outreach and social engagement efforts of the university’s students.
Vice-Chancellor Dr. (Prof.) V.C. Vivekanandan commended the efforts of the Pro Bono Club, stating that HNLU continues to bridge legal education with social responsibility through impactful community initiatives and field-based learning experiences.
Street Play on Human Rights and Rehabilitation
As part of the awareness drive, HNLU’s Pro Bono Associates performed a Nukkad Natak (Street Play) inside the jail premises. The performance depicted the struggles, rights, and aspirations of prisoners, creatively conveying the message that “imprisonment is not an end, but an opportunity for reform and redemption.”
The play showcased themes such as human dignity, social reintegration, community support, and rehabilitation after incarceration. It also emphasized the importance of legal safeguards and the collective role of society in ensuring humane treatment of prisoners.
Positive Impact and Institutional Collaboration
The initiative received a warm response from both inmates and prison officials, sparking deep reflection and dialogue on justice, empathy, and rehabilitation. HNLU extended heartfelt gratitude to the District Legal Services Authority, Raipur, and the Central Jail Administration for their cooperation and support in making the workshop a success.
Reaffirming HNLU’s Mission
The workshop exemplified HNLU’s enduring commitment to community engagement, social justice, and experiential legal education. By reaching out to marginalized communities and institutions, HNLU continues to nurture socially responsible legal professionals dedicated to extending the reach of justice beyond the courtroom — even behind prison walls.