Bandipora: The Undertrial Review Committee (UTRC) in Bandipora on Tuesday reviewed 11 eligible cases of undertrial prisoners and recommended one prisoner for release, subject to fulfilment of legal formalities.
The fourth meeting of the committee for 2026 was chaired by Principal District and Sessions Judge and District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) Chairperson Jeema Bashir at the New District Court Complex, Bandipora.
The committee recommended the release of undertrial prisoner Mohd. Akbar Lone, falling under Category IV, through the concerned Judicial Magistrate, subject to compliance with the prescribed legal procedure.
However, the committee did not recommend the release of Manzoor Ahmad Sofi, noting that he had already been convicted by a competent court.
The case of Abid Ahmad Waza was also examined on medical grounds in view of his reported life-threatening medical condition. The committee directed the jail authorities to constitute a Standing Medical Board, conduct a detailed medical examination and submit its report to the concerned court within 15 days.
The committee also considered cases of undertrial prisoners categorised as sick or infirm and requiring specialised medical treatment. Their release was not recommended as they were not found to be suffering from life-threatening or chronic, lifelong medical conditions warranting such relief. Jail authorities were, however, directed to arrange regular medical examinations and submit reports to the respective courts.
The release of three other undertrial prisoners, Suraya, Muneera and Tahira Begum, was not recommended as they are facing trial in cases involving alleged heinous offences punishable with life imprisonment.
The meeting was attended by District Magistrate Bandipora Indu Kanwal Chib, Senior Superintendent of Police Tahir Saleem Khan, DLSA Secretary Sheikh Babar Hussain, superintendents of district jails in Kupwara and Baramulla, and other judicial and prison officials. Superintendents of Central Jail Srinagar, Central Jail Kot Bhalwal and District Jail Amphalla, Jammu, participated virtually.
