Have 25 prison officials in Punjab been suspended in the fight against drug networks?
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Synopsis
In a bold step against rampant corruption and drug trafficking within prisons, the Punjab government has suspended 25 officials, including senior ranks. This decisive action highlights the ongoing battle to dismantle drug networks that pose a threat to public safety and the integrity of the justice system.
Key Takeaways
- Punjab government suspends 25 prison officials to combat corruption.
- Action includes three Deputy Superintendents and two Assistant Superintendents.
- Jaggu Bhagwanpuria was transferred to disrupt drug networks.
- NCB's involvement highlights the serious nature of drug trafficking.
- Continued efforts are necessary to maintain integrity in the prison system.
Chandigarh, June 28 (NationPress) In a significant move against corruption and drug networks operating within prisons, the Punjab government announced on Saturday the suspension of 25 officials, which includes three Deputy Superintendents and two Assistant Superintendents.
This action is part of the government’s ongoing campaign to eradicate corruption and dismantle drug operations inside correctional facilities.
According to a government statement, the decision followed reports of irregularities and drug-related activities within the prison system. This major crackdown was initiated based on intelligence concerning corruption and drug trafficking in these facilities.
In March, authorities transferred infamous gangster Jaggu Bhagwanpuria from the high-security Bathinda Central Jail to Silchar Jail in Assam amid suspicions that incarcerated gangsters were orchestrating drug syndicates from within Punjab’s jails.
The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) had previously arrested Bhagwanpuria, who is also implicated in the murder of Punjabi singer Sidhu Moosewala, under the Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances (PIT NDPS) Act.
Bhagwanpuria, who has 128 FIRs against him across Punjab and other states, was apprehended in a murder case in 2015 and has since been held in various jails throughout Punjab.
In the case concerning Moosewala's murder, it was Bhagwanpuria and gangster Lawrence Bishnoi who conspired to eliminate him.
However, their partnership later deteriorated. Bhagwanpuria, hailing from Gurdaspur district, is regarded as one of Punjab's most feared gangsters, following Bishnoi, and faces multiple charges under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) for plotting to undermine communal harmony in the region.
He is also facing 15 cases related to arms and drug trafficking. Upon his transfer to Assam, the NCB indicated that Bhagwanpuria was relocated due to his established connections with international criminal networks in Canada, the United States, and Pakistan. His relocation was deemed essential to disrupt the criminal ecosystem that facilitates ongoing illicit activities.
Point of View
I believe this decisive action by the Punjab government is a crucial step in addressing the intertwined issues of corruption and drug trafficking within our prison system. The integrity of our correctional facilities must be upheld to ensure justice and safety for all citizens.
NationPress
28/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why were the prison officials in Punjab suspended?
The suspension was enacted due to reports of corruption and drug-related activities within the prison system, as part of a broader initiative to dismantle drug networks.
Who was Jaggu Bhagwanpuria and why is he significant?
Jaggu Bhagwanpuria is a notorious gangster implicated in multiple criminal activities, including the murder of Punjabi singer Sidhu Moosewala, and he was recently relocated due to his connections with international drug syndicates.
