Agra: 19 prisoners released after trust pays Rs 5.40 lakh fine on their behalf

Nineteen prisoners who had completed their respective sentences but were serving extra time because of their inability to pay penalties here at the district jail were freed on Thursday after Satymev Jayate trust paid off Rs 5.40 lakh fine on their behalf.

"I was in for the last eight months. I have taken a pledge not to engage in any anti-social activity in my life anymore," said Karan, one of the released prisoners.

"I was able to come out after Rs 20,000 was paid as fine by the trust. I have promised that I will never engage in crime anymore," said another released prisoner Devendra.

"The trust has paid a total of Rs 5.40 lakh penalty for the prisoners who were not able to do so. They have taken the pledge that they will not engage in crime again," said Mukesh Jain, trustee, Satyamev Jayate trust.

"Nineteen prisoners have been released today. Satyamev Jayate trust paid for them and they have been released," said Sashi Kant Mishra, Jail Superintendent.

Last month, 21 prisoners were released on Independence Day after a businessman paid penalties to the tune of Rs 1.73 lakh on their behalf.