The High Court, while hearing a public interest litigation titled Court on Its Own Motion vs State of Punjab and Others, reviewed the latest developments regarding the security of jails in Punjab. The hearing was presided over by Justice Anupinder Singh Grewal and Justice Deepak Manchanda on August 18, 2025.
During the proceedings, Punjab's Chief Secretary K.A.P. Sinha appeared through video conferencing and informed the court that notable steps have been taken to strengthen prison security across the state. He stated that video conferencing facilities are now available in all jails and many vacant posts in the jail staff have been filled, while the recruitment process for remaining posts is underway.
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The Principal Secretary of Jails, Government of Punjab, filed a detailed status report through an affidavit, which has been officially recorded by the court. A copy of this affidavit was shared with Amicus Curiae Ms. Tanu Bedi, who requested time to examine the document.
In addition, retired IPS officer and Head of the Special Investigation Team (SIT), Prabhodh Kumar, submitted his affidavit along with a sealed status report marked as Annexure R-1. The court took this on record and directed that copies be provided to both the Amicus Curiae and Senior Deputy Advocate General of Punjab, Aftab Singh Khara.
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The State counsel further assured the court that the affidavit of the Director General of Police will be submitted on the next date of hearing. The matter has now been listed for August 28, 2025.
"Significant progress has been made in augmenting jail security, and further measures are in process," submitted Chief Secretary K.A.P. Sinha before the court.
Case Title: Court on Its Own Motion vs State of Punjab and Others
Case No.: CWP-PIL-93-2023 (O&M) and other connected cases
