RAWALPINDI: In light of the prevailing law and order situation in the country and the recent riot in the district jail Gujrat, vigilance and monitoring of jails has been increased and a ban has been imposed on all kind of leaves of all superintendents of jail and subordinate staff across Punjab.

In a directive to all regional deputy inspectors of prisons and all superintendents of jails in Punjab, the inspectorate general of prison Punjab has intimated officials that all kinds of leaves of superintendents of jail and all other staff of the jail have been cancelled with immediate effect and a complete ban has been imposed on all types of leaves of all officers / officials and other staff (supervisory, ministerial and watch and ward) till further orders.

The IGP said that in light of the emergent law and order situation in the country and the recent incident of riot that took place in district jail, Gujrat on Jan 23, 2023, vigilance and monitoring of jails has been increased with a ban on all kinds of leaves of the jail staff.

All officers / officials are directed to ensure that they are present at their postings/places of duties and perform their duties with diligence, dedication, devotion, efficiency, alacrity and honesty.

The IGP said that any lethargic attitude or deviance from rules and instructions in maintenance of discipline/security and administrative affairs of jails shall not be tolerated.

Deputy inspector generals of prisons of all regions have been requested to keep a close eye on the law and order situation of jails under their command by consistent surprise and scheduled visits.

The IGP said that all CCTV cameras and control room equipment must be made functional round the clock. The prison authorities said that stern action should be taken in case of any lapse so it should be observed in maintenance of security of the jail and discipline amongst inmates and staff.

All genuine grievances of inmates should be addressed locally forthwith, the directive stated, adding that jail staff are also requested to ensure strict compliance of the above directions in true letter and spirit under intimation to this inspectorate.

On the other hand, the investigation committee headed by DIG Rawalpindi Region Saeedullah Gondal has completed the detailed report which will be submitted to IG Prisons Malik Mubashir Ahmad Khan.

After the District Jail Gujrat riot, an additional force of four assistant superintendents of jails and 40 wardens has also been posted at the jail to ensure security and discipline.

In light of the investigation committee’s report, recommendations for strict legal action against those responsible for the riot will be sent to the interior department of the Punjab government.

Published in Dawn, January 27th, 2023