Punjab Prisons Minister Conducts Surprise Jail Inspections Amid Security Concerns
Punjab's Minister for Prisons, Laljit Singh Bhullar, carried out unannounced inspections at Central Jail Patiala and Nabha Jail on Friday to assess security arrangements, inmate welfare, and reformative programmes. The minister's visit comes amid heightened political tensions regarding the safety of high-profile prisoners, particularly senior Akali Dal leader Bikram Singh Majithia.
Security Reassurances and Political Accusations
During his inspection of Nabha Jail, Minister Bhullar directly addressed concerns raised by the Shiromani Akali Dal regarding Majithia's safety, stating there was "no threat whatsoever" to the incarcerated leader. Bhullar emphasized that Majithia is housed in a high-security zone under constant supervision of the jail superintendent.
"The security of every inmate is the responsibility of the prison department. Bikram Majithia is completely safe in jail and his family need not have any apprehensions," the minister declared, characterizing repeated statements by Akali leaders as politically motivated.
The security situation surrounding Majithia has become a contentious issue between the SAD and Punjab government following intelligence alerts in early January. Central intelligence agencies reportedly warned of potential threats to Majithia's life from Pakistan-based terror outfit Babbar Khalsa International (BKI).
Judicial Intervention and Allegations
Following these security reports, the Punjab and Haryana High Court described the matter as "serious" and issued a stern warning to the state government. The court emphasized that ensuring inmate safety constitutes a constitutional obligation, holding the ADGP (Prisons) and Jail Superintendent personally responsible for any security lapses.
The Akali Dal recently met with Governor Gulab Chand Kataria, alleging that the state's security measures—including installation of additional CCTV cameras—were merely "an eyewash." Party representatives specifically claimed some cameras were positioned to record Majithia in private areas such as washrooms, describing this as a violation of his fundamental rights and religious sentiments.
Political Accusations and Governance Claims
On Saturday, Minister Bhullar launched a strong critique against previous Akali Dal and Congress governments, blaming them for the deterioration of law and order in Punjab. He alleged connections between leaders of these parties and criminal elements that allegedly encouraged gangster networks and drug trafficking in the state.
"These very elements are still trying to disturb Punjab's atmosphere," Bhullar asserted, adding that under Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann's leadership, police have been freed from political pressure to take firm action against organized crime.
Comprehensive Jail Facility Assessments
During his earlier inspection at Central Jail Patiala, Bhullar conducted a thorough review of multiple facilities and programmes:
- Inspected the jail factory and reviewed long-term ITI courses being conducted for inmate rehabilitation
- Visited workshops and interacted with both convicts and undertrial prisoners
- Assessed skill training programmes being implemented for inmates
- Reviewed kitchen facilities, food quality, free legal aid services, and medical arrangements
- Examined overall living conditions and visited the women's ward to evaluate facilities for female inmates
While interacting with prisoners, Bhullar urged them to abandon criminal activities and utilize reformative programmes to successfully reintegrate into society. He reiterated the Punjab government's commitment to maintaining drug-free jails and strengthening correctional initiatives focused on skill development and positive behavioral change.
Family Engagement and Procedural Improvements
At Nabha Jail, the minister reviewed security protocols and inmate facilities before engaging with relatives of prisoners in the mulaqaat (meeting) area. This interaction aimed to understand visitor experiences and address procedural issues affecting families attempting to maintain connections with incarcerated loved ones.
The comprehensive inspections reflect the Punjab government's increased focus on prison reform and security enhancement amid ongoing political controversies surrounding high-profile inmates. Minister Bhullar's visits underscore the administration's efforts to balance security concerns with inmate welfare and rehabilitation programmes while navigating complex political dynamics.
