Parappana Agrahara Jail Turns Into ‘Liquor Factory’, Viral Videos Spark Probe

Bengaluru Karnataka’s largest prison, Parappana Agrahara, meant to be a centre for reform and rehabilitation, has once again come under the spotlight for shocking irregularities.

Viral videos showing inmates celebrating birthdays, holding parties, and even terrorists using mobile phones have already raised alarm. Now, fresh revelations suggest the jail has virtually turned into a liquor factory.

Liquor Parties Inside Jail:

Recent footage aired by social media showed prisoners enjoying what they called an “liquor party,” a slang term for illicit liquor consumption. Police registered a case and began investigating how alcohol was being supplied inside the high-security facility. To their surprise, investigators found that liquor was not smuggled in from outside but was being brewed within the prison walls.

How Inmates Brew Liquor:

According to sources, two teams of inmates were involved in the process. One group collected rotten fruits such as apples and grapes, along with cinnamon, wheat, and sugar from prison supplies.

Another team sourced yeast from the jail’s bakery. These ingredients were mixed in containers and left to ferment for weeks in corners of the barracks. When parties were planned, the mixture was strained and filled into water bottles for consumption.

The December 31 party in Barrack No. 7 reportedly followed this method. Investigators suspect jail officials may have turned a blind eye, possibly in exchange for money from inmates.

Why Videos Were Made:

Officials say prisoners recorded videos of the parties for three main reasons:

To send to family members, showing they were living comfortably inside jail.

To share with associates outside, building their image and collecting protection money.

To use as leverage against jail authorities, blackmailing them for favours.

Systemic Failure:

Despite repeated warnings from the Supreme Court about VIP treatment of inmates, Parappana Agrahara continues to face allegations of unchecked criminal activity. The revelations have embarrassed the prison administration and the Department of Correctional Services, led by ADGP Dayananda.

Public Concern:

The idea of criminals running liquor factories inside a state prison has shocked citizens and raised questions about accountability. Experts say urgent reforms and stricter monitoring are needed to restore credibility to the prison system.

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