Chandigarh, December 27, 2024: Punjab Jail Minister Laljit Singh Bhullar today presented a detailed account of the Jail Department’s initiatives during 2024, focusing on strengthening security measures and prisoner rehabilitation.
A high-security jail is being constructed near Ludhiana on 50 acres at a cost of ₹100 crore, designed to accommodate 300 high-risk prisoners. To enhance monitoring, AI-based CCTV surveillance systems are being installed in eight central jails, addressing contraband smuggling, wall crossing, and unauthorized mobile use. Central Jail Bathinda, equipped with a V-Kavach Jammer, is set to serve as a model for its installation in 12 other sensitive jails, with additional CRPF forces deployed in Bathinda.
Over 750 prisoner calling systems are being introduced to improve communication with families and lawyers while limiting illegal mobile usage. High-security zones are also being equipped with X-ray baggage scanners and enhanced CCTV coverage.
The newly established Research, Analysis, and Intelligence Wing, operational since October 2023, is analyzing prisoner behavior and conducting intelligence-driven operations to fortify internal security.
Rehabilitation programs have also seen significant progress. Under the “Sikhya Daat Project,” 2,200 inmates are pursuing educational courses, with 513 enrolled in skill programs such as plumbing and tailoring. Two additional petrol pumps at Nabha and Fazilka have increased the department’s commercial projects to eight.
On staffing, 738 warders and 25 matrons have been recruited, with 179 posts currently under recruitment. The state has also approved 1,220 new positions across various cadres, and recruitment processes will begin soon.
