Smartphones and Nap Time: Ministry Proposes Easing Rules for Convicts

Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs has drafted amendments to the rules governing the detention of convicted prisoners, Orda.kz reports.

The draft has been posted for public comment on the Open NPA portal until March 11.

The proposed changes were prepared at the request of the Presidential Administration. They include the installation of self-service terminals in minimum-security facilities, which would allow inmates to submit various applications, including requests for appointments and permission to leave the premises.

The draft proposes several measures. Notably, it would introduce a daily nap time as a reward for inmates who have been assigned a third positive behavior level.

It also suggests allowing inmates in minimum-security facilities to use smartphones outside the institution. Another measure would enable inmates to apply for visits and city leave via the terminals, which, according to the authors, would help to reduce the risk of corruption.

The ministry said the amendments «will not entail negative socio-economic or legal consequences».

Original author:Raushan Korzhumbekova