Punjab: Inmates run amok in Ludhiana Central Jail; Jail Superintendent injured

Ludhiana, Dec 16 (PTI) A clash between inmates at the Central Jail on Tajpur Road here on Tuesday evening turned violent, leaving the jail superintendent seriously injured, sources said.

The incident occurred late in the evening when a scuffle broke out between prisoners over an issue, and soon escalated, they said.

During routine checking, jail officials who entered the premises were allegedly attacked by inmates, with police personnel deployed inside the jail also being assaulted.

Upon receiving information, Jail Superintendent Kulwant Sidhu went to the spot to bring the situation under control, but was allegedly hit on the head with a brick by an inmate, causing serious injuries.

He was immediately shifted to a private hospital and is undergoing treatment.

The incident was brought to the notice of Punjab Jail Minister Laljit Singh Bhullar, who has sought a detailed report from the jail authorities, sources said.

Commissioner of Police Swapan Sharma reached the jail premises along with a heavy police force to maintain law and order.

According to sources, around 200 inmates attacked police personnel near one of the barracks. People present outside the jail complex claimed that sirens could be heard from inside the jail complex for nearly 20 minutes.

Several senior officials of the police and jail administration reached the spot as an additional police force was deployed. Efforts were on to bring the situation fully under control.

No official statement had been issued by the jail administration or police till late evening. PTI COR SUN VSD OZ OZ