From Our Special Correspondent
Daijiworld Media Network - Bangalore

Bangalore, Sep 13: Karnataka Governor Vajubhai Rudabhai Vala has indicated that he will talk with the State Government on the issue of framing guidelines for the release of convicted prisoners sentenced to life and who have undergone a total sentence of 14 years and above, including remission.

He was speaking to reporters after the inaugural programme of a seminar on "Safety of Women Challenges and Way Out" in Bangalore on Saturday.

The Governor has reportedly expressed his displeasure over the issue of framing of guidelines by the State Government for release of convicted prisoners sentenced to life during one-to-one interaction with Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister T B Jayachanndra at the Raj Bhavan on Friday.

Former Governor H R Bhardwaj has declined to release prisoners from various jails in the State.

The last time prisoners were released in the State was in 2006.

Apparently peeved over media reports that the State Government has framed guidelines to curtail the Governor’s powers on the release of prisoners, Vala reportedly asked the Law Minister to speak to him on the issue.

Jayachandra called on Vala and explained to him that guidelines have been framed under section 432 of Code of Criminal Procedure.

The minister assured the Governor that the State Government has not touched the Governor’s powers under Article 161 of the Constitution.

Jayachandrahad clarified on Friday that under Article 161 of the Constitution, the Governor has powers to grant pardons, and to suspend, remit or commute sentences in certain cases.

Earlier, the Governor inaugurated the seminar and told the college girls, who attended in large number, to be brave in their life.

The Gujarat has provided 50 per cent reservation for women in urban and rural local bodies.

Karnataka State Open University, Mysore, Vice-Chancellor Sudha Rao said in the male dominated society, changes have not occurred as desired by women.

Only a few decision making bodies, including in the UGC, were headed by women, she said.

The Vice Chancellor asked the ABVP to conduct a study on women empowerment in the society.