In a move aimed at alleviating the chronic overcrowding in England and Wales prisons, the UK has started to release more than 1,700 offenders early today.

This decision is part of a government scheme initiated by the newly-elected Labour administration, but the groundwork had already been laid under the previous Conservative government.

The policy allows prisoners to be released after serving 40% of their sentence, instead of the usual 50%, in an effort to free up 5,500 beds. However, those convicted of serious crimes like sexual offences, terrorism, and violent abuse are not eligible for this early release.

Critics have been quick to point out the potential dangers. HMP Chief Inspector of Prisons, Charlie Taylor, voiced concerns about the possibility of a “revolving door” in the criminal justice system, warning that offenders may not have undergone adequate rehabilitation before their early release. "It's a risky time with so many prisoners coming out at once," Taylor told Sky News.

UK Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood defended the controversial scheme, explaining, "We inherited a prison system on the brink of collapse. This is not the change we wanted, but it was the only remaining option. The alternative would have been unthinkable."

In addition to the 1,700 offenders released today, officials anticipate another 2,000 prisoners being freed in October, raising further concerns about public safety and the strain on probation services.

For now, England and Wales are watching closely, as the government's attempt to prevent a prison meltdown plays out in real time.

(With inputs from BBC News and Sky News)