Goa assembly toughens prison rules, makes phone possession punishable with 3 years in jail

The Goa Legislative Assembly has approved two significant pieces of legislation aimed at enhancing legal protections for professionals and improving prison conditions. On Tuesday, September 1, 2026, the Assembly passed the Goa Advocates Protection Bill, 2026, which introduces strict penalties for assaults and threats against lawyers. Separately, the same day saw the passage of the Goa Prisons and Correctional Services Bill, 2026, designed to tighten controls over prison environments and curb illegal activities within correctional facilities. The Advocates Protection Bill outlines severe consequences for individuals who commit violent acts or make threats against advocates performing their duties. Under this legislation, anyone found guilty of physically attacking a lawyer faces up to two years in prison and a fine of ₹55,000. For more serious offenses, such as causing grievous harm, the penalty escalates to a maximum of seven years in prison and a fine of up to ₹1 lakh. Threats involving potential death, injury, or property damage carry similar severe punishments. The bill also includes provisions for police protection for advocates facing threats, ensuring they can perform their roles without fear of retaliation. This protection can be requested through a sessions court, and any reduction or termination of such protection must be authorized by the court that initially granted it. Additionally, the legislation mandates that if an offense is reported against a lawyer, the relevant police officer must conduct an inquiry before registering the complaint. These inquiries must be completed within seven days. To prevent misuse of the law, the bill imposes penalties on advocates who file false or malicious complaints. Such actions could result in up to one year in prison, a fine, or both. Furthermore, the legislation allows for the recovery of damages from fines imposed on offenders, providing financial relief to affected advocates. In parallel, the Goa Prisons and Correctional Services Bill, 2026, addresses issues related to the management and operation of prisons in the state. This bill introduces stricter regulations regarding the possession and use of mobile phones and other prohibited electronic devices within prison premises. Offenders caught with such items face up to three years in prison and a fine of ₹25,000. Any sentence imposed under these provisions begins after the current sentence is completed. The bill also emphasizes the need for regular rotation of personnel in sensitive areas to prevent the formation of inappropriate relationships between staff and inmates. It mandates the reporting of high-risk offenders upon their release, including those on bail or temporary parole, to the district Superintendent of Police for continued monitoring. The legislation aims to enhance intelligence gathering and surveillance within prisons, particularly targeting organized criminal activities and witness intimidation. Prison authorities are tasked with coordinating efforts with the State Police Intelligence Wing to monitor inmate behavior and detect potential threats. Advanced technologies, such as jamming solutions, will be employed to combat unauthorized communications within prison walls. The proposed law also focuses on reforming the prison system by establishing open and semi-open correctional institutions aimed at rehabilitating prisoners and aiding their reintegration into society. These reforms include provisions for skill development, vocational training, and the protection of prisoners' fundamental human rights. Each prison officer-in-charge is responsible for maintaining discipline, ensuring compliance with the Act, and enforcing lawful orders within the facility. Both bills were introduced by Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, who oversees the Law and Judiciary portfolio. The Advocate Protection Bill was passed by voice vote in the Assembly, reflecting broad support among legislators. Similarly, the Prisons and Correctional Services Bill received approval through a voice vote, indicating consensus on the need for updated and stricter regulations governing legal professionals and prison systems. Both pieces of legislation are set to take effect once officially notified by the government through the official gazette.