Goa assembly toughens prison rules, makes phone possession punishable with 3 years in jail
The Goa legislative assembly recently approved a bill that tightens prison regulations by penalizing the possession of mobile phones and other restricted electronic devices within jails. This offense is now both cognizable and non-bailable, with offenders facing up to three years in prison and a fine of ₹25,000. The punishment becomes effective after the completion of the existing sentence.
The Goa Prisons and Correctional Services Bill, 2026, which was introduced by Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, aims to replace the current prison legislation and bolster security measures against contraband and organized crime within prisons.
The bill also mandates periodic rotation of personnel in sensitive areas to prevent the formation of inmate-staff relationships and complacency, and mandates reporting of high-risk inmates to the district police. Prison officials found to be aiding contraband distribution could face additional penalties. Moreover, the legislation provides for the establishment of open and semi-open correctional institutions focused on rehabilitation and inmate reintegration. Goa has a single central prison in Colvale village, North Goa district.
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