DGP himself gave us mobiles’: Viral video from Bengaluru jail triggers probe

Bengaluru, : A fresh controversy has erupted inside the Parappana Agrahara Central Prison after inmates allegedly recorded videos using mobile phones and made sensational claims against senior police officials, exposing serious security lapses within the prison.

The issue came to light after a video shot by inmates went viral on social media, in which prisoners claimed they had access to mobile phones, television and even streaming platforms inside the jail. In a shocking statement, the inmates alleged, “We were given mobile phones by DGP Alok Kumar himself,” raising eyebrows across the state administration.

Despite recent strict measures introduced by Alok Kumar to curb illegal activities such as mobile usage and drug movement inside prisons, the incident has once again brought the spotlight on internal lapses.

Following the viral video, authorities conducted an immediate search operation inside the jail premises. During the inspection of the 9th barrack, officials recovered mobile phones hidden in the drainage system. “The phones were wrapped in milk packets and concealed inside drainage lines to avoid detection,” a senior officer said.

Investigations revealed that three undertrial prisoners—Darshan, Abhishek and Andrews—were behind the video. Police suspect that the act was deliberate. “The accused were recently shifted to different barracks as part of administrative measures. Upset over this, they intentionally recorded the video and used the DGP’s name to mislead and create controversy,” an officer explained.

A case has been registered at the Parappana Agrahara Police Station, and the accused have been shifted to a quarantine cell for further inquiry.

Taking serious note of the incident, the prison department has initiated strict action against staff members. On the orders of Alok Kumar, warders Shivanand Karlabatti, Niranjan A. Kamat and Hanumanthappa Hadapad have been suspended for negligence. Instructions have also been issued to initiate disciplinary action against the jailer.

Addressing the media, Alok Kumar clarified, “After a mobile phone was earlier found with an inmate, he was shifted to a quarantine cell. As part of internal management, inmates belonging to the same gang were being separated and shifted barrack-wise. Due to dissatisfaction, they hid mobile phones in toilet chambers and used them.”

He further added, “A case has been registered. We have suspended staff responsible for negligence and are tightening security, especially in areas where mobile signals are accessible.”

Authorities have now stepped up surveillance and security measures within the prison to prevent further incidents.