Background and reasons for the action: Reports of corruption and drug trafficking in Punjab’s prisons had been circulating for years. The activities of organized crime, especially drug trafficking, from within the prisons not only tarnished the reputation of the prison administration but also had a negative impact on society. In view of this situation, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann took a major action on June 28, 2025, in which 25 prison officers were suspended with immediate effect. Those suspended include three deputy superintendents, two assistant superintendents, and other prison staff. Explaining the purpose of the action, a government spokesperson said: “This suspension has been taken to bring reforms in the prison system, promote transparency, and completely eliminate drug networks. Our aim is to improve the functioning of prisons and establish an accountable system.” Operation Details: This operation is part of the Punjab government’s “War on Drugs” (Yudh Nashiyan Virudh) program, which was launched to rid Punjab of the scourge of drugs. Information According to the report, several incidents of drug smuggling and corruption have come to light from inside the jails, with evidence of the connivance of the jail staff. In this regard, 25 jails in Punjab, including 13 high-security jails, have been closely monitored. The government had earlier constituted a five-member ministerial committee in March 2025, headed by Finance and Taxation Minister Harpal Singh Cheema. The committee aims to monitor the ongoing campaign against drugs and strengthen rehabilitation programmes. In addition, in March, notorious gangster Jaggu Bhagwanpuria was shifted from Bathinda Central Jail to Assam’s Silchar Jail, as he was accused of running a drug network from inside the jail. Corruption and Drug Network: Drug smuggling in Punjab jails is an old and serious problem. Investigations have revealed that gang leaders and drug smugglers continue their illegal activities from inside the jails with the help of mobile phones and jail staff. "Kachhora" phones, which are small two- to three-inch devices, are used in prisons to smuggle drugs and other contraband. These phones are often hidden in the inmates’ private parts, making them difficult to detect. Additionally, there have been reports of drug delivery via drones and drug smuggling with the help of construction workers or maintenance staff coming from outside the prison. According to a government survey conducted in 2022, 47% of prisoners in Punjab’s prisons are drug addicts, which shows the seriousness of the problem. Political and public reaction: The action has received mixed reactions from political circles. Opposition leaders supported the move but also criticized that it came too late. A senior Congress leader said: “The problem of drugs in Punjab’s prisons is not new. The government should have acted on it earlier.” The public praised the action on social media, but some questioned whether suspension alone was enough or would it solve larger systemic problems? A user on X wrote: “This move by the Mann government is commendable, but until the nexus between the police and politicians is broken, this problem will not be completely solved.” “Other measures and future prospects: The suspension is part of the Punjab government’s broader drive against corruption and drugs. Earlier this year, 52 police personnel were dismissed on charges of corruption and mismanagement, including one inspector, five assistant sub-inspectors, and 42 constables. In addition, 10 deputy superintendents and eight superintendents of police were also suspended. The government has allocated over Rs 525 crore to improve the prison system, which will strengthen prison security, surveillance systems, and rehabilitation programs. The Punjab Police has also announced the introduction of e-FIR facility, which will allow online registration of FIRs for motor vehicle theft cases. Conclusion: This action by the Punjab government has sent a strong message against corruption and drug networks in prisons. However, experts say that a complete end to the problem is possible only when the nexus between the police, politicians, and drug smugglers is completely broken. As a song from the film “Udta Punjab” says: “Powder ki Who will hold Leno accountable? This operation may be a partial answer to this question, but the real success will be when drugs and corruption are completely eradicated from Punjab’s prisons. This initiative will not only make the prison system transparent but will also play an important role in freeing the youth of Punjab from the scourge of drugs. Source: The Tribune: The 420.in: Pro Kerala: Social News XYZ: India Today: The Indian Express: X Posts: