The Delhi High Court was informed on Wednesday that nine Tihar Jail officials have been suspended and transferred following allegations of their involvement in an extortion racket operating within the prison, in collaboration with inmates. The revelations, described as “astonishing” by a bench comprising Chief Justice D K Upadhyaya and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela, have prompted swift action, with the court granting the state government and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) eight weeks to file a detailed status report. The matter is scheduled for further hearing on October 28.
The case stems from a petition filed by a former inmate, who alleged widespread extortion, safety violations, and security lapses inside Tihar Jail. The Delhi government responded by initiating disciplinary measures against the implicated officials under relevant regulations. The court directed the government to issue an advisory to all Delhi jails, including Tihar, Mandoli, and Rohini, to prevent similar misconduct.
A preliminary CBI inquiry, ordered earlier by the court, confirmed the involvement of both inmates and jail officials in illegal and corrupt activities. On August 11, the bench labeled the findings “disturbing” and instructed the CBI to register an FIR, emphasizing the need for a thorough investigation into all parties involved, including jail officials, inmates, their relatives, and even the petitioner. A sealed report from the inspecting judge of Central Jail 8 and the semi-open prison revealed “very disturbing facts,” including call data records showing illicit communication between inmates and external contacts, as well as misuse of the jail’s official landline to facilitate “nefarious activities.”
Also Read: Karol Bagh Mega Mart Sparks Explosive Legal Showdown — Delhi High Court Demands Answers!
The court also noted concerns about the petitioner’s conduct, as highlighted in the judge’s report. Earlier, on May 2, the Delhi government’s Home Department was tasked with conducting a fact-finding inquiry to identify officials responsible for administrative and supervisory lapses. The government requested additional time on August 11 to complete this inquiry.
The allegations point to systemic issues within Tihar, with claims that certain individuals inside and outside the jail colluded with authorities to extort money in exchange for privileges. As the CBI intensifies its probe, the case underscores the urgent need for reforms to address corruption and ensure the safety and security of inmates in one of India’s largest prison complexes.
Also Read: Rajasthan University Students Spark Chaos on JLN Road Over Suspended Union Elections!