Mumbai, December 9: Prison inmates across Maharashtra will be able to purchase non-vegetarian food in jails. Convicts, who often protest against lack of facilities, will be able to buy fish and chicken meals after a decade. Back in 2008, non-vegetarian food was banned in prisons in Maharashtra following security concerns. The ban has been lifted last week, mid-day reported. 'Maharashtra Jails Overcrowded': Officers of 5 Major Prisons Write to State Govt Seeking Increase in Capacity.

A decade ago, convicts were allowed to buy fish or chicken from the canteen and prepare a meal themselves by creating makeshift hearth in an open space. This method was known as "Handi". However, it was found that prisoners would engage in fights with each other during the preparation of meal. The Handi method was eventually banned. Maharashtra Women Prisoners Can Now Make Video Calls to Family Members, Will Be Charged Rs 5 For Five Minutes.

The circular has now been cancelled and prisoners can now buy chicken or fish thalis from canteen. The canteen will also serve snacks like idli, samosas, sheer, etc. Speaking to mid-day, superintendent of Byculla Jail Sadanand Gaikwad said, "From last weekend, we have started providing snacks like samosas, idli, sheera etc. Inmates can also pre-order non-vegetarian food and purchase from the canteen once a month."

At present, the canteen serves a meal including pulses, vegetable and roti to the jail inmates. Some of the convicts also serve milk and banana in the morning. The food provided at the prison kitchens is sold at nominal rates.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Dec 09, 2019 08:56 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).