File photo of Tihar Jail.
As many as 66 Tihar inmates in Delhi, who are on the verge of completing their sentences, were today hired by private companies during a recruitment drive at the jail premises.
Vedanta group and IDEIM India Pvt Ltd offered the highest number of placements while Taj Mahal group offered the highest package to Raju Parasnath, who has spent more than eight years in Tihar.
Parasnath, who earned the highest package, had completed Bachelor of Social work from IGNOU during his stay in jail. He secured a job at Tajmahal Group of Companies where he is going to be placed as Assistant Business Development Manager for a salary of Rs 35,000 per month.
"I came here when I was 18-years-old. I was charged for murder. My sentence was reduced keeping in mind my good behaviour. I completed my graduation in Tihar and have now got a job. I hope I will do justice to myself and my employers," he said.
Most of the inmates who have landed jobs are on the verge of being released and will now join after the completion of their sentences, officials said.
31 companies participated in the event. In all, 66 inmate students were selected to participate in this programme and the selection criteria was based on their good conduct.
They got jobs according to their skill and education, however, no women inmate participated in the placement drive.
Director General (Prisons) Vimla Mehra congratulated the candidates and also heard their complaints and grievances regarding the jail.
"I wish all of you a very successful life ahead and would like you to spread the message to your jail mates to maintain calm and keep good behaviour for their better reformation," she said.