We’ve always been told to not do bad things because the police will catch us. As we grew up, we came to know about what’s criminal and what’s not. And after getting a full scope of the punishment for the various kinds of offenses, most sane-minded people came to the conclusion that a jail’s the last place they want to visit during their life time. However would you go to one without serving a sentence?
According to Times of India, Kerala’s State Prison Department is considering a ‘pay and stay’ initiative at the Viyyur Central Prison in Thrissur district. Jail DGP R Sreelekha said,
“We have submitted a set of detailed proposals to the government as part of the Prison Museum Project. The stay inside the jail premises is also one among them.”
If you’re confused as to whether I’m talking about an alternate reality where hotels are turning into jails or vice versa, don’t worry, it’s not. Actually, this is a program where a part of the prison in Thrissur will be developed as a museum. Additionally, people can live like a prisoner for 24 hours and get a feel of the jail life.
The Jail’s DGP has emphasised on the fact that as she had come across several historical objects in the state’s jails, she wants to put them under one roof. Superintendent of Viyyur Central Jail, M. K. Vinod Kumar further elaborated the concept saying,
“As per the plan, interested persons can book for an one day stay in the special enclosures where they will get everything from jail uniform to food to have the real feel of the prison life.”
The entire project will cost ₹ 6 crore, out of which ₹ 3 crore has already been sanctioned. It’ll be built by a Chennai-based architect, while state-based Nirmithi Kendra would be doing the construction. The complex will have features like an exhibition area, special enclosures for people to stay, library, cafeteria and light and sound show. Sounds alluring, to be honest.
Now, the thought of paying a sum of money to live like a prisoner might be enough to bring in the hip crowd. However, as crazy as it sounds, it’ll be a delightful affair for all history buffs. A senior officer informed that,
“Uniform Models of British police personnel and rare prison photographs will also be included. A naadan thattkada (ethnic cafeteria) is also under plans as part of the museum where public can come and feast jail delicacies.”
While Kerala is still in the process of green-lighting this project, Telangana is already one step ahead. A 220-year-old-central jail is already letting tourists stay in it for ₹ 500/day. So, since that’s functioning properly, it’s only a matter of time before Viyyur Central Jail gets the thumbs up from the Government.
Although the prison officials are looking to use this opportunity to show the history of a jail and its inmates, it can serve as something bigger. If the experience is authentic enough, maybe it can discourage people from committing crimes. Maybe the iron bars and rough floors will teach them a subtle lesson about why they should live a simpler life.