Youth’s Death in Jail Triggers Government Action

Punjab  government has taken swift administrative action following the death of a young man in Sangrur Central Jail. The deceased, who was serving a sentence under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), reportedly died under mysterious circumstances, prompting public outcry and calls for accountability. In response, the state authorities have transferred the superintendent of the jail.

The young inmate, whose identity has not been officially disclosed due to legal sensitivity, was undergoing a sentence for charges under UAPA—a stringent anti-terror law. His sudden death behind bars has raised questions about prison conditions and custodial safety. Though the exact cause of death is still under investigation, early reports suggest possible negligence or failure in timely medical attention.

Family members of the deceased have expressed their deep grief and demanded an impartial probe. “He may have made mistakes, but he deserved justice and humane treatment. The prison should have ensured his safety. Now he’s gone, and we are left without answers,” said a close relative while speaking to local reporters.

Human rights activists and civil society members have also raised their voices, questioning how a young man could die in a high-security prison without any warning signs or medical alerts. Several organizations are demanding an independent inquiry into the circumstances leading to his death.

The government, acknowledging the seriousness of the incident, has transferred the Sangrur jail superintendent with immediate effect. An official spokesperson stated, “A departmental inquiry has been initiated, and accountability will be ensured. The safety and rights of all inmates, regardless of the charges against them, are a priority.”

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) may also be involved in the inquiry, depending on the findings of the initial investigation. Sources say that CCTV footage from the jail premises is being examined, and statements from fellow inmates and jail staff are being recorded to reconstruct the events leading up to the incident.

Legal experts have pointed out that under Indian law, even individuals accused or convicted under severe charges like UAPA are entitled to humane treatment and full protection of their rights in custody. “Death in custody is a serious matter. It reflects either medical negligence, administrative failure, or worse—custodial abuse,” said a legal analyst familiar with prison law in India.

The incident has also sparked political debate, with opposition leaders accusing the government of mishandling prison administration and demanding transparency in the probe. “This is not the first time such a tragedy has occurred. Reforms in jail management are urgently needed,” said a member of the opposition party.

Meanwhile, the youth’s body has been sent for postmortem, and the final report is awaited. His family continues to wait for closure while hoping that the truth behind his death will not be buried under bureaucratic silence.