Cuddalore Central Jail published 85 books by inmates

Former Tamil Nadu Chief Secretary V. Irai Anbu at the launch of books written by inmates of the Cuddalore Central Jail on Saturday. | Photo credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

Former Tamil Nadu Chief Secretary V Irai Anbu on Saturday released 85 books written by inmates of the Cuddalore Central Jail under the Sirayil Mulaitha Siragugal (Jail Grown Wing), an initiative to promote their creativity and promote rehabilitation.

Developed with the support of the Ezhuthaga Iyakkam (Writing Movement) and the Tamil Nadu Prisons Department, the books include poetry, stories, essays, songs and letters. Mr. Irai Anbu said that the publication of 85 books within six months reflects the sustained efforts of the participants, the Ezhuthaga Iyakkam team, the district administration and the jail authorities. He encouraged inmate-authors to continue writing, saying their works could help society understand their lives and experiences while providing an opportunity for introspection.

“When you leave this campus, society will see you as a creator,” he said, encouraging them to return to the community with confidence and a renewed sense of purpose.

Describing the initiative as a success for Cuddalore, he said the combination of training, sustained engagement and publication deserves credit. He encouraged authors to become role models for others and draw inspiration from everyday experiences for their next books.

Cuddalore Collector Sibi Adhithya Senthil Kumar said the initiative was a model of prison reform that allowed inmates to emerge as writers and creators. Writing could change the way prisoners viewed themselves and were perceived by their families and society. He said efforts would be made to expand the initiative.

Deputy Inspector General of Prisons, Vellore Range, G. Shanmugasundaram; Cuddalore Central Jail Superintendent A. Parasuraman; CEO of New Century Santhanam Publishing; and Ezhuthaga Iyakkam Coordinator V. Killivalavan participated.

Published – 18 Oct 2026 23:33 IST