Kapurthala (Gurpreet Singh): A tense overnight situation unfolded inside Kapurthala Central Jail after a confrontation between inmates escalated into large-scale disorder, forcing authorities to launch a swift security operation involving tear gas and controlled force to restore discipline.
The unrest reportedly began inside one of the prison’s residential blocks when an argument between a few inmates intensified into a violent clash. Within minutes, the confrontation spread, drawing dozens of prisoners into the commotion and creating panic across the correctional facility.
Officials said efforts by jail personnel to calm the inmates failed, with several prisoners allegedly confronting staff members and refusing to return to their cells. The situation turned more volatile when a section of inmates climbed onto rooftops and set fire to clothing and other items, sending smoke across the premises.
As the disturbance grew, additional police units were rushed to the jail complex to support prison authorities. Security forces used tear gas shells to disperse the crowd and later conducted a baton-charge to push inmates back into their designated barracks.
Three inmates were injured during the operation. Two sustained minor wounds during the forceful dispersal, while another was reportedly struck by a tear gas shell and taken to hospital for medical attention.
Senior officials confirmed that no prison staff or police personnel were harmed during the action. They also clarified that there was no breach of prison security and no prisoner escaped during the incident.
Jalandhar Range DIG Naveen Singla stated that the disturbance was limited to a single block and involved nearly 100 to 150 prisoners. He added that the response was measured to ensure control without causing unnecessary casualties.
Following the operation, jail authorities conducted a complete headcount to verify the presence of all inmates. Officials confirmed that the prison population remained intact and that normalcy had been restored by early morning.
An internal inquiry has now been launched to determine the exact trigger behind the clash. Authorities are also reviewing surveillance footage and questioning inmates to identify those who may have led the disturbance.
Security across Kapurthala Jail has since been tightened, with extra personnel stationed at sensitive points to prevent any repeat of the violence.
