Chandigarh, 01 June (H.S.): Punjab Jails Minister Dr. Ravjot Singh on Sunday issued a stern warning to prison officials, stating that any violent incident, security breach or administrative lapse inside jails would result in strict disciplinary action against the concerned Jail Superintendent and other responsible officers.

The Minister made these remarks while chairing a high-level review meeting with Superintendents of all prisons in Punjab at Punjab Bhawan. Emphasising accountability in prison administration, he said the Punjab Government under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann is committed to maintaining a secure, disciplined and reform-oriented prison system.

Dr. Ravjot Singh said incidents of violence inside prisons would not be tolerated at any cost. He directed jail authorities to adopt a result-oriented approach, regularly assess their performance, identify shortcomings and take corrective measures in a timely manner. He also stressed the need for optimum utilisation of available resources to improve efficiency and strengthen prison management.

The Minister said a responsible officer is one who performs duties with integrity, commitment and professionalism while ensuring effective use of resources. Reiterating the government’s zero-tolerance policy towards unlawful activities in prisons, he warned that negligence or indiscipline would invite stringent action.

During the meeting, detailed discussions were held on prison security, inmate welfare, infrastructure development, staff recruitment and the overall functioning of the department. Dr. Ravjot Singh highlighted that prisons should serve not only as correctional facilities but also as centres for reformation and rehabilitation.

He directed prison authorities to intensify efforts towards providing education, skill development training, healthcare services and psychological counselling to inmates. These initiatives, he said, are crucial in helping prisoners reintegrate into society and lead productive lives after their release.

Senior officials briefed the Minister on various reformative initiatives being undertaken across prisons in Punjab. Discussions also focused on improving healthcare facilities, food management systems and addressing employee-related concerns.

The meeting was attended by Secretary Jails Mohammad Tayyab, ADGP Jails R.K. Jaiswal, Superintendents of all prisons in Punjab and other senior officers of the department.

Hindusthan Samachar / GURSHARAN SINGH