Bengaluru Jail Scandal Prompts High-Level Investigation
Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara announced on November 10 the formation of a high-power committee to investigate serious lapses in prison management at Bengaluru central jail. This decisive action comes in response to multiple viral videos circulating on social media that allegedly show inmates enjoying unauthorized privileges within the prison barracks.
Minister Confirms Lapses, Orders Comprehensive Probe
Addressing reporters during a press conference in Bengaluru, G Parameshwara acknowledged significant management failures at the facility. While clarifying that some circulating videos dated back to 2023 and a few photos were three to four months old, the minister confirmed that recent incidents had exposed genuine security concerns that demanded immediate attention.
The investigation will be led by R Hitendra, Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order), who will head the newly formed high-power committee. The minister stated that the committee would thoroughly review all activities within state prisons and submit a comprehensive report based on specific terms of reference.
Committee Composition and Immediate Actions
The investigative panel includes prominent law enforcement officials: Inspector General of Police Sandeep Patil, along with Superintendents of Police Amaranath Reddy and CB Rishyanth as members. Additionally, Deputy Commissioners and Superintendents of Police from districts housing major prisons will serve as co-members to ensure comprehensive oversight.
In terms of immediate disciplinary measures, the government has taken strong action against responsible personnel. Chief Superintendent of Bengaluru Prison K Suresh has been transferred, while Superintendent Imamsab Myageri and Assistant Superintendent Ashok Bhajantri have been suspended from their duties. Furthermore, an IPS officer will be appointed to take charge of Parappana Agrahara Jail in Bengaluru, and a centralized command center will be established to monitor all jail CCTV cameras continuously.
Political Fallout and Security Overhaul
The controversy has sparked significant political reactions, with the BJP staging demonstrations against the prison management failures. Party leaders were taken into preventive custody while attempting to march toward Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's office residence, highlighting the political sensitivity surrounding the issue.
The viral videos that triggered this response purportedly showed inmates with access to private televisions and smartphones within their barracks, raising serious questions about security protocols and privilege control in one of Karnataka's most important correctional facilities. The state government's rapid response demonstrates its commitment to addressing these security breaches and implementing stronger prison management systems to prevent future occurrences.
