Pramesh S Jain
Twenty-four life convicts were released from Bengaluru’s Parappana Agrahara Central Prison on the grounds of good conduct after serving long prison terms.
The release took place during a simple ceremony organized by the Karnataka Prisons and Correctional Services Department,where Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge presented release certificates and encouraged the former inmates to rebuild their lives as responsible citizens.
Among those released,the stories of two former inmates drew significant attention.
Manikanta Story of Hope:
Manikanta,a resident of Chikkamagaluru, spent 15 years in prison after being convicted in a murder case.
Speaking to the media after his release,he expressed regret over his actions and urged people not to let anger lead them into crime.
During his imprisonment,he worked in the prison bakery for ten years and earned a livelihood.
He also revealed that his longtime girlfriend stood by him throughout his sentence.
While out on parole,the couple got married, and they now have a four-year-old child.
“No one should commit a crime in a moment of anger,” Manikanta said,appealing to the public to choose peace over violence.
Sai Banna Walks Free After 37 Years:
Another release that attracted attention was that of Saibanna Lingappa Natekar from Jewargi,who spent 37 years in prison after being convicted in three murder cases.
According to available information,Natekar was initially imprisoned for killing his first wife after suspecting her of having an extramarital relationship.Later,while out on parole,he remarried.
Two years later,during another parole period,he allegedly found his second wife with another man.In a fit of rage, he killed his second wife and his daughter,who reportedly tried to intervene.He later attempted suicide by stabbing himself but survived.
After spending nearly four decades in prison,Natekar has now been released on the basis of good conduct.
The release of the 24 convicts highlights Karnataka’s rehabilitation efforts, with authorities emphasizing that reformed inmates should reintegrate into society and lead responsible lives.
