Punjab Legislative Committee Conducts Thorough Inspection of Ludhiana Jails
A significant inspection of Ludhiana's correctional facilities was carried out on Friday by the Punjab Legislative Assembly's committee dedicated to the welfare of Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Backward Classes. The comprehensive review covered the Central Jail, Borstal Jail, and Women's Jail, with committee members engaging directly with inmates to understand their concerns.
Committee Leadership and Member Participation
The inspection was led by Jagraon MLA Sarvjit Kaur Manuke, who serves as the committee chairperson. She was accompanied by a delegation of fellow MLAs, including Jasbir Singh Sandhu from Amritsar West, Amit Ratan representing Bathinda Rural, Jagseer Singh of Bhucho, Nachhatar Pal from Nawanshahr, Balwinder Singh Dhaliwal of Phagwara, and Dalbir Singh Tong from Baba Bakala. This diverse group of legislators ensured a broad perspective on the conditions within the jails.
Addressing Prisoner Grievances and Parole Concerns
During the visit, the committee members actively listened to the problems faced by both convicted prisoners and undertrial detainees. A prominent issue raised by the inmates was the prolonged delay in receiving mercy, remission, or parole. In response, Chairperson Sarvjit Kaur Manuke provided assurance that she would escalate this critical matter to Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, aiming for an appropriate and timely resolution to address the prisoners' legitimate concerns.
Comprehensive Facility Review and Health Services Assessment
The committee conducted a meticulous examination of various jail facilities, including the barracks, kitchen areas, food arrangements, toilets, and overall cleanliness. Members personally sampled the food served to inmates, emphasizing the importance of hygiene and quality in meal preparation. Additionally, they visited the jail hospital to gather detailed information on outpatient department (OPD) clinics, HIV treatment protocols, tuberculosis (TB) care, and counseling services available to prisoners. The committee underscored the necessity for adequate washroom facilities, regular cleaning schedules, and consistent maintenance to uphold sanitary standards.
Vocational Training and Recreational Facilities Inspection
Further extending their review, the panel inspected vocational training units designed to equip prisoners with practical skills. These units included bakery, welding, powerloom, weaving, woodworking, and tailoring workshops. The members also evaluated the CCTV control room to assess security measures and reviewed recreational facilities aimed at promoting inmate well-being. Officials provided updates on ongoing Industrial Training Institute (ITI) courses available to prisoners, highlighting efforts towards rehabilitation and skill development.
Focus on Children and Educational Encouragement
In a compassionate gesture, the committee members met with small children residing within the jail premises. They encouraged these young individuals to focus on their studies, recognizing the importance of education in fostering a better future. This interaction highlighted the committee's holistic approach to welfare, extending beyond immediate physical conditions to address broader social and developmental needs.
The inspection concluded with a commitment from the committee to continue monitoring jail conditions and advocating for improvements, ensuring that the rights and well-being of all inmates, particularly those from marginalized communities, are upheld in accordance with legislative mandates.
