CHANDIGARH: Punjab Jails Minister S. Laljit Singh Bhullar has stressed the implementation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) based and ultra-modern technology to strengthen security measures across the state's correctional facilities.
During the maiden meeting with senior officials of jail department and superintendents from all state prisons, the Cabinet Minister averred that adopting cutting-edge technology is crucial for making prisons crime-free and preventing the use of mobile devices and other prohibited items. He directed officials to expedite the installation of advanced surveillance systems.
S. Bhullar said that he would meet Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann to discuss funding allocation for the jail department, assuring adequate resources for modernization initiatives and essential amenities.
Addressing the issue of prison overcrowding, S. Laljit Singh Bhullar said that new jails and additional barracks would be constructed across the state.
While highlighting Mann government’s commitment to improving the prison system by ensuring better facilities and security in jails, S. Laljit Singh Bhullar instructed officials to implement stringent security measures to make prisons completely crime-free. He asked that prisons should manufacture various products to achieve financial self-sufficiency. He said that proper implementation of welfare schemes and provision of basic amenities should be ensured for both convicted prisoners and undertrials.
During the comprehensive review meeting, S. Laljit Singh Bhullar focused on ongoing initiatives aimed at improving the correctional infrastructure and strategies to resolve existing challenges, infrastructure modernization, healthcare facility improvements, inter-departmental communication enhancement and rehabilitation programs.
The Cabinet Minister stressed for the rehabilitation and reintegration of prisoners into society through skill development programs and vocational training initiatives, aiming to reduce recidivism rates.
The Superintendents shared the specific challenges they face in their respective institutions, such as overcrowding, staffing shortages and resource constraints. The Cabinet Minister assured that the government would take prompt action to address these issues while implementing long-term measures to improve jail management.
Looking to the future, the Jails Minister outlined plans for expanding inmate educational programs, increasing the use of technology for monitoring and administration and promoting mental health and wellness initiatives.
S. Laljit Singh Bhullar expressed his confidence in the collective efforts of the Superintendents and the department to advance the reform agenda, ensuring that Punjab’s correctional facilities evolve to meet modern standards while contributing positively to the broader social fabric.
Prominent amongst others who were present in the meeting included Mr. Alok Shekhar, Additional Chief Secretary, Jails; Mr. Arun Pal Singh, ADGP Prisons; Mr. R.K. Arora, IG Prisons; Mr. Surinder Singh, DIG Prisons Headquarters; all Superintendents of Jails and officers from the Prison Headquarters.