Chandigarh, June 2025: In a bold move to clean up the state’s prison system, the Punjab government has suspended 25 jail officers and staff over allegations of corruption, negligence, and their alleged involvement in the illegal drug trade within jails. The action, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, is being seen as a strong signal towards the government’s commitment to its zero-tolerance policy against drugs and corruption.
Who Has Been Suspended?
According to the official statement from the Punjab Jail Department, the suspended personnel include:
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3 Deputy Superintendents
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2 Assistant Superintendents
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20 other jail staff from various prisons across the state
These officers have reportedly been under the scanner for several months due to increasing complaints of illegal activities inside the jails, including drug supply, mobile phone smuggling, bribery, and offering unauthorized privileges to inmates.
Background: A Pattern of Complaints and Internal Inquiries
Sources within the Punjab Home and Jail Departments confirmed that multiple reports had surfaced about:
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Drug trafficking networks operating from inside the jails
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Inmates using mobile phones for external coordination
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Bribes exchanged for preferential treatment
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Staff turning a blind eye or directly participating in these activities
Recent surprise inspections and internal probes confirmed these allegations, prompting the state to act swiftly.
CM Bhagwant Mann’s Stand: No One Will Be Spared
Reacting to the development, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann reiterated his government’s stand on maintaining strict discipline and transparency in the system.
“We have pledged to make Punjab drug-free. Whether it’s inside or outside the jail walls, no one involved in the drug trade will be spared. Strictest action will be taken against anyone found guilty—no matter how high their position,” said the CM.
Mann added that more such actions are likely in the coming weeks as the government intensifies its anti-drug and anti-corruption campaign.
Future Roadmap: Complete Jail System Overhaul
The Punjab Government is reportedly working on a comprehensive plan to overhaul the jail administration system. Some measures in discussion include:
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Installation of high-security surveillance systems in all prisons
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Use of jammers and mobile signal blockers
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Establishing a dedicated anti-corruption cell within the jail department
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Frequent surprise checks and digital monitoring of staff conduct
Political & Public Reactions
The suspension of 25 jail officials has sparked strong reactions across the political spectrum. While AAP leaders have hailed the decision as “bold and necessary”, opposition parties have demanded even stricter accountability measures and questioned how such a large network thrived under the department’s watch.
Public opinion on social media also strongly supports the crackdown, with users demanding the names of suspended officers be made public.
