The Punjab Government has ramped up efforts to bolster security across 18 prisons in the state with the integration of advanced surveillance systems. As of January 13, 598 X-ray and other security machines, along with 647 CCTV cameras, referred to as “camera strands”, have been strategically installed. These cameras are part of a comprehensive network designed to monitor key areas within and around the prisons.
The term “camera strands” denotes separate operational camera units connected to a broader system. Each camera is positioned to oversee specific zones within the facilities. Alongside these, additional measures such as body scanners, baggage X-ray machines, “V- Kavach 2.0” jammers, and prison inmates calling facility (PICS) have been introduced to enhance security.
Information to this effect was furnished before the Punjab and Haryana High Court during the hearing of a suo motu or “Court on its own motion case”. As the matter related to jail security came up for resumed hearing before the Division Bench of Justice Anupinder Singh Grewal and Justice Lapita Banerji, Additional Director General of Police (Prisons) said timelines outlined in prior affidavits for augmenting prison safety were largely adhered to.
The Bench was also told that the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) had granted no objection certificates for “V-Kavach” solution in nine jails with high-security enclosures, while NOC for four other central jails at Patiala, Ludhiana, Hoshiarpur and Ferozepur was pending due to supplier-related issues.
“The proposal seeking administrative and financial approval for installing “V-Kavach” jammers has been sent to the administrative department, jails, by the Prison Department. The work with regard to other measures, including setting up AI-enabled CCTV systems, X-ray baggage scanners, body-worn cameras etc. in high-security enclosures are progressing and the entire exercise will be completed in a few months,” the Bench was told.
It was added that the Prison Department had forwarded all necessary proposals and there was no delay at their end. “The delay is at the end of the Punjab Police Housing Corporation, which is the executing agency,” it was added.
Punjab Advocate General Gurminder Singh also assured the court that all administrative hurdled would be addressed promptly, while Amicus Curiae Tanu Bedi sought permission to visit jails to examine the functioning of the newly deployed measures. The court permitted the visit and scheduled the next hearing for January 28.
The development is significant as V-Kavach jammers, designed to prevent the misuse of mobile phones within jail premises, are expected to enhance security and curb illegal activities within state’s correctional facilities.
Available information suggests V-Kavach jammers can be used for anti-IED, anti-drone, anti-cellular system and electronics jamming.
