Taking a compassionate and reform-oriented approach, the Punjab government has approved the early release of 108 life-term prisoners who demonstrated exemplary conduct during their incarceration over the past year. The initiative aims to provide rehabilitation opportunities to well-behaved inmates, Punjab Jails Minister Laljit Singh Bhullar said.
Elaborating on the initiative, the Cabinet Minister said, “Over the past year, 108 prisoners serving life sentences in various jails across Punjab have been released.” He emphasised that the decision reflects the state government’s commitment to offering a second chance to individuals who have shown genuine reform and met the criteria for early release.
Bhullar highlighted that this step is part of the Punjab government’s broader strategy to ensure that the justice system not only enforces accountability but also fosters rehabilitation and reintegration into mainstream society.
The Minister further stated that by releasing prisoners who have demonstrated a strong desire for reform, the government is promoting a more humane and effective approach to justice.
“The release of these prisoners stands as testimony to our government’s dedication to rehabilitation and its belief in second chances. We are committed to building a more compassionate and just society,” he added.
Additionally, Bhullar informed that around 800 calling systems have been installed across Punjab’s jails to facilitate communication between inmates and their families and legal representatives.
This move also serves to curb the use of illegal mobile phones within prison premises. He further noted that indigent prisoners are provided free calling services—10 minutes of talk time every 15 days—to connect with their families and lawyers.