Pramesh S Jain
A sensational twist has emerged in the controversy surrounding a viral video from Parappana Agrahara Central Prison,which allegedly showed inmates enjoying luxury facilities inside the jail.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the video may have been part of a deliberate smear campaign targeting Alok Kumar,following his recent crackdown on illegal activities and“VIP treatment”within prisons.
According to senior prison officer,the footage was allegedly orchestrated by a group of inmates—identified as Darshan,Abhi,and Andrews (also known as Zypson Andrews)—with suspected collusion from certain staff members.
The trio is believed to have recorded and circulated the video to tarnish the reputation of senior prison authorities.
The video,which went viral on social media,purportedly showed prisoners using mobile phones,watching television,and accessing streaming platforms.
In one clip,inmates were heard discussing upcoming IPL matches and portraying a comfortable lifestyle inside the jail.
The inmates also allegedly made claims implicating the DGP in facilitating access to contraband.
However, initial findings suggest the video may have been staged as retaliation against stricter enforcement measures introduced under Alok Kumar’s leadership.
Search Operation and Recovery:
Following the leak,prison authorities carried out a search operation in Barrack No. 9.During the inspection,officials recovered a mobile phone hidden inside a drainage pipe, wrapped in used milk packets—an apparent attempt to evade routine checks.
Case Registered;Inmates Shifted:
A case has been registered at Parappana Agrahara Police Station against the three inmates.They have been shifted to quarantine cells as part of disciplinary action.
During questioning,the accused allegedly confessed that the video was created to frame prison authorities in response to tightened rules.
Warders Suspended for Lapses:
Taking serious note of the incident,DGP Alok Kumar ordered the immediate suspension of three warders—Shivananda,Niranjan A.Kamath, and Hanumanthappa—for alleged dereliction of duty.
The jail administration has also been directed to submit a detailed explanation regarding how mobile phones entered a high-security barrack.
Probe Into Authenticity and Network Angle:
Authorities are currently verifying whether the video was genuinely shot in the prison premises or staged elsewhere to resemble jail conditions.
Investigators are also examining the possibility that inmates accessed mobile network signals from nearby telecom towers.Discussions are underway with service providers to restrict signal access around the prison to prevent misuse.
Background:
Darshan and Abhi are accused in a murder case reported near Hennur Bande in Bengaluru,adding further gravity to the incident.
