Bengaluru: Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara on Monday announced strict disciplinary action against senior officials of Parappana Agrahara Central Jail following an inquiry into reports of “VVIP treatment” for high-profile inmates.
Senior Jail Officials Dismissed or Transferred
Jail Superintendent Magery and ASP Ashok Bhajantri have been dismissed from their posts, while Chief Superintendent K. Suresh has been transferred. For the first time, an IPS officer has been appointed to head the jail, ensuring stricter supervision and accountability.
Speaking to reporters, Parameshwara said the viral photos and videos circulating online were partially outdated, with some footage dating back to 2023. However, the probe revealed serious lapses in prison management, prompting decisive action against the officials responsible.
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High-Power Committee to Review Prisons
The Home Minister announced the formation of a high-power committee to review the functioning of all prisons in the state and submit a comprehensive report. “We will provide them with the terms of reference,” he said, emphasizing the government’s commitment to stricter oversight.
Viral Video Sparks Controversy
The action comes in the wake of a viral video showing inmates allegedly enjoying unauthorized privileges, including access to mobile phones and televisions. Notable inmates reportedly featured in the footage include death-row convict and serial killer Umesh Reddy, gold smuggling accused Tarun Raj, and an ISIS operative brought from Dubai by the National Security Agency (NSA).
Another video that has surfaced shows inmates drinking alcohol, consuming non-vegetarian food, and dancing, using plates and mugs as improvised musical instruments, further highlighting lapses in prison discipline.
Government Response
Home Minister Parameshwara assured the public that the state government is taking stringent measures to curb such incidents in the future. “From now on, Parappana Agrahara Prison will be managed by an IPS officer,” he said, underlining the focus on enhanced supervision and accountability.
