CAG Report Highlights Overcrowding and Facility Shortcomings in Punjab Jails

A recent Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report on Punjab jails highlights persistent overcrowding, inadequate infrastructure, and insufficient basic facilities, including poor medical care and lack of sanitary supplies for women inmates. Overcrowding worsened due to prolonged undertrial custody and delays in jail construction. The report also notes a significant shortfall in the production of prescribed biscuits for inmates. The Punjab government has acknowledged these issues and is undertaking construction projects and population reviews to address capacity and facility gaps.