Punjab Minister Laljit Singh Bhullar Announces Crackdown on Gangsters and Drug Smugglers
In a strong statement from Patiala, Punjab Jail and Transport Minister Laljit Singh Bhullar declared on Tuesday that gangsters and smugglers are a legacy of previous governments, but the current Bhagwant Singh Mann-led administration is taking decisive steps to eliminate them. "Those who harm innocent people and engage in drug trafficking should not expect any mercy," he asserted, emphasizing the government's zero-tolerance policy.
Addressing Jail Staff Training and Security Upgrades
Bhullar made these remarks during the passing-out parade of warders and matrons at the Punjab Jail Training School in Patiala. The event was attended by Additional Director General of Police (ADGP, jails) Arunpal Singh and Principal Secretary-cum-Inspector General (Prisons) Muhammad Tayyab. Highlighting prison reforms, the minister explained that modern training modules are equipping jail staff to handle weapons, manage high-risk inmates, address overcrowding, and comply with court and departmental guidelines. He praised the trainees for their discipline and commitment, noting that advanced training will help personnel tackle emerging challenges effectively.
Reaffirming the government's focus on a "drug-free and gangster-free Punjab," Bhullar announced that a high-security jail in Ludhiana will become operational by year-end to monitor high-profile gangsters and smugglers. He detailed that prisons are being strengthened with AI-based CCTV cameras, full-body scanners, sniffer dogs, metal detectors, and 5G-enabled jammers to curb smuggling and enhance security. Dismissing allegations of negligence, he stressed that inmate safety remains the department's top responsibility.
Training Ceremony and Prison Olympics Conclusion
During the ceremony, Principal Mukesh Sharma presented the training report. Outstanding trainees were honored, and nine beneficiaries received appointment letters on compassionate grounds. The event featured demonstrations of weapon handling and cultural performances, showcasing the skills and dedication of the staff.
Later, Bhullar attended the prize distribution ceremony of the Ujala Punjab Prison Olympics-2026, which concluded at Patiala Central Jail. Calling upon inmates to reform, he said, "Criminals are always punished, but you can shape your future through good deeds." He urged inmates to correct past mistakes and reintegrate into society with dignity, promoting a message of hope and rehabilitation.
Sports Initiatives for Inmate Rehabilitation
Inmates from Patiala Zone emerged as overall champions in the Prison Olympics, with Faridkot and Kapurthala Zones securing second and third positions, respectively. Competitions included tug of war, kabaddi, volleyball, badminton, chess, painting, athletics, long jump, and shot put. Female inmates actively participated in sports and cultural events, such as giddha, while male inmates performed bhangra, fostering a sense of community and positivity.
Bhullar explained that the state government introduced sports initiatives in prisons to promote discipline, camaraderie, and positive thinking among inmates. As part of rehabilitation efforts, he announced that petrol pumps would be opened outside jails to provide employment opportunities to well-behaved inmates. The minister expressed hope that such initiatives would help inmates become self-reliant and successfully return to mainstream society after their release. The next edition of the Prison Olympics will be hosted at Kapurthala Jail, continuing the focus on inmate welfare and reform.
