ISLAMABAD, Oct 21: The government on Saturday granted special remissions to woman, juvenile and old inmates, except those convicted of murder, espionage, anti-state and sectarian activities, on the occasion of Eidul Fitr.

The remissions were announced by the Ministry of Interior on directives of President Gen Pervez Musharraf.

Total remission has been announced for juvenile convicts who have served one-third of their sentence, except those involved in acts of terrorism.

A remission of one-year has been granted to woman prisoners who have children and are serving sentences for crimes other than homicide and terrorist activities.

Total remission has been granted to woman inmates of 60 years of age and above and men of 55 years of age and above who have undergone at least one-third of their sentences.

Prisoners sentenced to life imprisonment have been granted a 90-day remission, except those involved in murder, terrorism or sectarianism.

There is also a remission of 45 days to all other convicts, except condemned prisoners and those convicted of murder, espionage, subversion, Zina, terrorism and sectarianism.

Those convicted in cases processed by the National Accountability Bureau will not be entitled to any remission.

The Interior Ministry has asked home departments of the provinces and the chief secretary of the Northern Areas to take necessary measures to ensure implementation of the decision.

The ministry has sought information from these departments regarding the number of prisoners entitled for remissions.