Sports stadium inaugurated at Kapurthala’s Central Jail

Punjab Minister for Jails Laljit Singh Bhullar on Thursday inaugurated the Guru Nanak Dev Ji Sports Stadium at Central Jail, Kapurthala, signalling a renewed push towards prison reform and inmate rehabilitation by the state government.

Addressing the media and jail authorities at the event, the minister said the new stadium—spread over four acres—was developed on land previously used as a garbage dump. The facility will now be used for athletics, football and other sporting activities aimed at promoting physical fitness and positive behavioural changes among inmates.

“The transformation of this area into a vibrant sports facility represents our commitment to providing a constructive environment within prisons,” Bhullar said. “Sports and physical activity are essential not just for physical well-being but also for improving mental health and instilling discipline.”

The minister also reviewed ongoing projects aimed at curbing illegal activities within jails, including the rapid installation of mobile jammers in 13 prisons across the state. He said these efforts are critical to eliminating the use of contraband mobile phones by inmates.

Bhullar further revealed that a state-of-the-art, high-security prison is under construction in Gorsian Bakhsh village in Ludhiana district. The Rs 100 crore facility will be designed to house high-risk and dangerous inmates separately.

Emphasising skill development and reintegration, Bhullar said the Punjab Government is expanding vocational programmes in prisons. “We are providing opportunities for inmates to work according to their skills. Many are being trained in bakery production and other trades, which will enable them to earn a livelihood post-release,” he added.

During his visit, the minister also inspected the jail kitchen, personally tasted the food prepared for inmates and interacted with prisoners to listen to their grievances. He instructed the jail authorities to address the issues raised on priority basis.

Later, Bhullar held a review meeting with Deputy Commissioner Amit Kumar Panchal, SSP Gaurav Toora and Jail Superintendent Shyamal Jyoti to discuss additional improvements in prison infrastructure and inmate welfare.

The minister reiterated the government’s resolve to make Punjab’s correctional facilities more humane, secure and focused on rehabilitation.