The parliamentarians are once again calling for a review of the existing cooling period imposed on offenders. During the deliberation today, some members of the National Assembly suggested doing away with the period altogether, while others questioned its effectiveness and fairness in helping offenders reintegrate into society after serving their sentences.
Currently, individuals who have served their prison terms have to wait a certain period before they can obtain a ‘No Objection Certificate’ or NOC from the police.
According to police, for those who served more than three years in prison, the cooling period ranges from one to four years. For misdemeanours, it is six months, and for petty misdemeanours, three months.
Several Members of Parliament said the inability to secure a NOC makes it difficult for offenders to reintegrate into society, particularly in finding employment, as many jobs and business ventures require this clearance.
They argued that this creates financial hardship and may inadvertently push individuals towards illegal activities.
Boomdeling-Jamkhar MP Wangdi said, “The cooling period restricts offenders from engaging in any sustainable activities, such as starting a business or working as a private employee, as their NOCs are withheld during this time. As a result, the skills they acquired during their prison term remain underutilised, undermining their rehabilitation and reintegration into society.”
Nyishog-Saephu MP Kuenga said, “The prison term itself serves as a form of cooling period. Requiring offenders to undergo an additional cooling period after their release can lead to frustration and hopelessness, potentially pushing them toward criminal activities and ending up back in prison.”
Furthermore, the parliamentarians said that offenders must be provided with certificates or any proof of participation in rehabilitation or skilling programmes completed during their time in prison.
“Multiple skill development programmes are offered to offenders during their time in prison. However, the lack of formal certification hampers their ability to secure employment or start their businesses after release,” said Dorji Wangmo, Kengkhar-Weringla MP, Monggar, NA.
In response, the home minister shared that the ministry is currently reviewing the cooling period, which may be submitted to the NA’s Women, Children and Youth Committee.
Sonam Yuden & Tashi Dekar
Edited by Sangay Chezom
