Sending out a strong message on accountability in prison administration, Punjab Jails Minister Dr. Ravjot Singh today announced that responsibility for any violent incident, security breach or administrative lapse occurring inside prisons would be fixed on the concerned Jail Superintendent and other responsible officials, who would face stringent disciplinary action.
Chairing a high-level review meeting with Superintendents of all prisons in Punjab at Punjab Bhawan here, the Cabinet Minister said the Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann-led Punjab Government is committed to maintaining a secure, disciplined and reform-oriented prison system. He categorically said that incidents of violence inside jails would not be tolerated at any cost.
During the meeting, detailed discussions were held on various issues related to prison administration, security arrangements, inmate welfare and the overall functioning of the department. Directing prison authorities to adopt a result-oriented approach, Dr. Ravjot Singh asked them to continuously assess their performance, identify shortcomings and take timely corrective measures.
He stressed optimum utilisation of available resources to enhance efficiency and strengthen prison management. The Cabinet Minister said, "a responsible officer is one who discharges his duties with integrity, commitment and professionalism while ensuring effective use of resources at his disposal."
Reiterating the government's zero-tolerance policy towards violence and unlawful activities inside prisons, he warned that any act of indiscipline or negligence would invite strict action. Underscoring the need for a modern and responsive prison administration, Dr. Ravjot Singh said that the role of prisons extends far beyond custodial confinement.
He said prisons must serve as institutions of reformation and rehabilitation by creating conditions that help inmates reconnect with the mainstream of society after their release. He further directed the prison administration to intensify efforts towards education, skill development, healthcare and psychological counselling for inmates so as to facilitate their constructive rehabilitation and social reintegration.
Senior officers of the department also briefed the Jails Minister on various reformative initiatives being undertaken across prisons in the state. Detailed discussions were held regarding healthcare facilities for inmates, food management, recruitment of staff, infrastructure augmentation and other employee-related issues.
Prominent amongst others who were present in the meeting included Secretary Jails Mohammad Tayyab, ADGP Jails R.K. Jaiswal, Superintendents of all prisons in Punjab and other senior officers of the department.