Wife of SAD Leader Alleges Rights Violation in Nabha Jail, Expresses Safety Fears
Ganeive Kaur Majithia, the wife of Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader Bikram Singh Majithia, made serious allegations on Wednesday. She accused Nabha Jail authorities of violating her husband's fundamental and human rights. This accusation came after she met him in the high-security jail located in Patiala.
Concerns Over Prolonged Isolation and Safety
Ganeive Kaur Majithia stated that her husband is being kept in prolonged isolation. She described this as a "jail within a jail" and called it undue punishment. Her family fears for Majithia's life, especially considering past incidents of murders inside Punjab jails. She also pointed to alleged lapses in the state's security apparatus.
Referring to the killing of Punjabi singer Sidhu Moosewala after the withdrawal of his security cover, she emphasized their heightened concerns. "We fear for his life," she said, citing intelligence inputs that indicate threats from extremist elements.
Legal Counsel Raises Broader Prison Issues
Majithia's legal counsel raised additional concerns about the overall law and order situation within Punjab's prison system. They pointed to several troubling issues:
- Incidents of violence inside jails
- Inadequate security arrangements
- Alleged monitoring of jail cameras by unauthorized private individuals
The counsel further alleged that family meetings with Majithia were often delayed. They claimed these meetings were allowed only after court intervention.
Jail Authorities Respond
Jail superintendent I S Kahlon could not be contacted for comments. However, a senior jail official, who requested anonymity, denied any violation of Majithia's rights. The official claimed that all rules were being followed properly.
High Court Takes Cognizance and Issues Directives
The Punjab and Haryana High Court took cognizance of this matter on January 13 this year. The court held several officials personally responsible for Majithia's safety:
- ADGP (Jails)
- IG (Prisons)
- Superintendent of Nabha Jail
The court directed the Punjab government to ensure full protection of Majithia's life. It ordered regular inspections and security reviews based on intelligence inputs. The court specifically noted that threat perceptions must be taken seriously. These include threats allegedly linked to the banned outfit Babbar Khalsa.
The court warned that any lapse in security would invite strict action against responsible officers.
Government's Response and Security Measures
In its response to the court, the Punjab government informed that multi-layered security arrangements were in place for Majithia. These measures include:
- A dedicated enclosure
- Continuous CCTV surveillance
Officials stated that all necessary precautions were being taken in line with court directions.
Background and Current Status
Bikram Singh Majithia has been lodged in Nabha Jail since June 2025. This is in connection with a disproportionate assets case related to alleged drug money laundering.
The high court has fixed February 10 as the next date of hearing. The court has sought compliance affidavits from state authorities.
Call for Serious Action
Ganeive Kaur Majithia has urged the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government to treat security threats with utmost seriousness. She stated that the administration showed indifference not only towards political prisoners but even towards the safety of ordinary citizens.
She reiterated that her husband's undertrial status and prior intelligence warnings necessitated heightened vigilance. "The threats are real and must be addressed immediately," she emphasized.
