Stating that he was awaiting preliminary report on providing facilities such as television or mobile to prisoners in the Central Jail at Parappana Agrahara here, Home Minister G. Parameshwara on Sunday said that a meeting would be convened to review the lapses. He also indicated that the government could set up a committee to recommend measures on corrective action to be taken.
Speaking to reporters in Davangere, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said that the government would take strict action against officials who have erred and take measures to ensure this doesn’t recur.
“The Home Minister will hold a review meeting on Monday,” he said.
Their comments came after videos of prisoner Umesh Reddy, a notorious serial rapist, was found to be having television and using a mobile phone, while Tarun Raju, an accused in gold smuggling case and an ISIS operative, having access to mobile phones inside the jail premises.
The viral videos came shortly after the State government was embarrassed following an episode involving a video of film star Darshan, accused in a murder case, was found getting privileges in the prison. Recently, another video of a rowdy-sheeter was seen cutting cake and celebrating his birthday with a garland of apples around his neck, leading to several suspensions and a departmental enquiry.
“In the past, when such incidents happened in Mangaluru and Belagavi jails, we took action against officials by suspending them. In Bengaluru, this has repeatedly happened. We had acted then. I have spoken to ADGP B. Dayanand in this regard for a report,” he told presspersons here on Sunday.
“I will not tolerate this nonsense. This should not happen. Though there could be a shortage of personnel, those who are working should work well. This does not mean prisoners can be allowed to use of mobile or television,” Dr. Parameshwara said.
“We have asked for a report. If we are not happy with it, we will set up a committee involving officers to take corrective measures. I will also convene a meeting to review the lapses. Though we have approved jammers and CCTV cameras, it is still to be implemented in some places.”
He said that not only a terrorist, but no one should have a mobile phone inside the prison. “If such facilities are given, then it will not become a jail,” he said.
Meanwhile, the prison officials conducted surprise checks in multiple barracks on Sunday, but reportedly found no items. A complaint has been lodged with the Parappana Agrahara Police.
More videos
On Sunday night, multiple photographs and a video purportedly of prison inmates drinking alcohol and partying emerged on social media. However, The Hindu could not independently verify their veracity.
Published – November 09, 2025 08:37 pm IST
