Prisons overcrowded, while reform efforts remain limited
Summary
Nepal’s prison system is overcrowded by 43 percent, with 27,798 inmates held in facilities designed for 19,359 people. The government’s parole and open-prison reforms have had limited impact, while juvenile reform homes are also under strain.
Key Points
- Nepal’s 75 prisons are holding 27,798 inmates against a combined capacity of 19,359, creating severe overcrowding in several districts.
- Kathmandu Valley prisons are especially congested, while some districts have no prisons at all, revealing major geographic imbalance.
- The government has introduced parole and is promoting open prisons, but officials say the reforms remain difficult to implement.
- Juvenile reform homes are also facing pressure, and legislation is being drafted to separate adults from minors.
