MP Khanna suggests dope test for jail staff, inmates writes to NHRC

Chandigarh, April 9, 2015: The Rajya Sabha Member of Parliament Avinash Rai Khanna today suggested National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) of passing orders to state to conduct dope test of the staff of Punjab jails as well as that of its inmates to detect the drug abuse that is becoming rampant within walled premises of jail too.

In his representation, to the NHRC and Punjab State Human Right Commission (PSHRC) MP Khanna stated that a large number of youngsters were in the grip of drugs addiction. This was the world's third largest business after arms and petroleum. The efforts of government and NGOs alone are unable to control this problem.

Even in Punjab it was found that four jail wardens from Kapurthala, two from Ferozpure and six ex-servicemen deputed for jail security through PESCO tested positive for drugs. He added that the same could be position in all jails of the country and hence needs immediate attention.

He added that the government jail officials were involved in this business, which translates into dark future of inmates and human rights violation. He has requested the NHRC to conduct dope test of all the inmates i.e. jail authorities and prisoners so that preventative measures could be taken.