Kannur: A majority of the prisoners in Kerala, who were granted probation on good conduct, are leading decent lives in the state. 

According to data, a total of 582 people, who were released on probation for good conduct in the year 2022, have not been booked under any other cases so far. 

For instance, there are cases of youths sent on probation, who later achieved academic success. The probation department’s files have a collection of several such inspiring cases. 

According to the Probation of the Offenders Act (1958), the main objective behind offering ‘probation on good conduct’ is to permanently reform lawbreakers. 

Even those slapped with jail terms can be granted probation, taking into account the circumstances that led to the crime, the character of the accused, family background and their community interactions.
 
However, only those above 18 years of age are eligible for probation. For granting probation a report from the district probation officer is required. 

Based on the report, the court can send the person on probation for good conduct for 1-3 years, as per its discretion.