US INL delegation visits Punjab, hails probation, prison reforms

2026-01-29 - 10:41

LAHORE – A delegation from the US International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Bureau (INL), led by Kendra Kirkland, visited the Punjab Home Department today. The delegation met with Special Secretary of Home, Fazal Rehman, to discuss key issues related to probation and parole services, prison reforms, and the enforcement of the rule of law. During the meeting, Special Secretary Fazal Rehman highlighted the Punjab government’s efforts in introducing an exemplary community service model for probationers. He explained that probationers in the province are being engaged in community service in line with their skills and capabilities. Since 2022, 52,435 probationers have been successfully integrated into the community after receiving training, and currently, over 43,000 probationers are undergoing rehabilitative training. Kendra Kirkland commended the Punjab government’s prison reform model, stating that it is highly commendable. She also expressed gratitude for the cooperation and collaboration of the Punjab Home Department in strengthening the rule of law. An INL representative assured that they would provide assistance in training probation officers according to international standards. The meeting concluded with the exchange of commemorative gifts. The event was attended by DG Probation and Parole Shahid Iqbal and Deputy Secretary of Prisons, Tehniat Bukhari.