Punjab Government today promulgated 'The Punjab Good Conduct Prisoners (Temporary Release) Amendment Ordinance, 2020. As per new provisions, the temporary release of the prisoners has been allowed beyond the maximum period of 16 weeks in a calendar year.<br />''<br />''Disclosing this at Chandigarh, Cooperation and Jails Minister Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa said that the step has been taken in view of containing the spread of COVID-19, with the intention to decongest the jails.<br />''<br />''<span style="color: #222222;">The Minister further added that the condition of the temporary release being availed of, on quarterly basis also stands waived.</span><br />