India’s Prisoners Shine in International Online Chess Championship: Gold and Bronze Medals Won by Inmates
India’s success in the world of chess continues to shine as players from juvenile homes in Bhopal and Elluru clinched gold and bronze medals at the fourth Intercontinental Online Chess Championship for Prisoners. The annual event, organized by FIDE, saw teams from various prisons across India competing for glory.
The initiative, aimed at changing the lives of prisoners and giving them a sense of purpose, has been spearheaded by Grandmaster Abhijit Kunte through the program “Parivartan: Prison to Pride” run by the Indian Oil Corporation. Kunte, who has trained over 120 prisoners in the last two years, highlights the positive impact of chess on the inmates, noting a significant reduction in conflicts and a newfound sense of recognition and purpose among the players.
Indian chess players like international master Eesha Karavade, international master Soumya Swaminathan, and grandmaster Lalit Babu have played a crucial role in training the prison teams, with physical visits to the prisons to provide guidance and support. Despite initial resistance and restrictions, the program has garnered support from authorities and players alike, fostering a sense of unity and achievement within the prison community.
The success of Indian prison teams in previous editions of the championship underscores the transformative power of chess in the lives of inmates. With teams from various prisons across the country participating and winning medals, the program serves as a beacon of hope for prisoners looking towards a fresh start upon their release.
As Kunte emphasizes, the program instills confidence and a sense of importance in prisoners, reminding them that they have the potential to make a positive impact and be recognized by society. By providing a platform for inmates to showcase their skills and talents, the program offers a pathway to redemption and a brighter future beyond the confines of prison walls.
The story of India’s prison chess teams is a testament to the power of sports in fostering personal growth, resilience, and community spirit, transcending barriers and transforming lives one move at a time.