After finding seven mobile phones with Tihar Jail inmates inside its premises in last one year, the jail authorities will install full human body scanners in the next two months in all the nine sub-jails to avoid such incidents.
“The proposal to install full human body scanner in each sub-jail is just a matter of two months. We have got the government’s approval and now we are looking into its technicalities,” said Vimla Mehra, director general (prisons), during annual briefing at sub-jail number one on Friday.
In last one year, seven mobile phones were discovered and four inmates were held with drugs inside the premises. “Despite tight and through checking, sometimes inmates manage to sneak inside the jail with the banned items carrying inside their body,” said Mehra.
These scanners will detect prohibited articles like mobile phones, narcotics, currency notes, arms and ammunition.
A committee has been constituted to prepare and finalise the technical specifications of the scanners. “The prison administration has invited global bids and technical formalities are being completed,” said Sunil Gupta, Tihar spokesperson.
He also said 21 new mobile jammers have also been installed in the jail in addition to the existing 11 at the cost of approximately Rs 4.71 crore. These jammers have been upgraded to block 3G technology also.
“The inmates of any official involved in indiscipline or illegal activities with the jail premises are dealt strictly. There is zero tolerance for any corruption,” said Mehra.
The jail authorities suspended its 13 officials for corrupt practices in last one year. They were found conniving with inmates and allow corrupt practises. Apart from 13 officials, 25 others received major punishments and 10 minor punishments for corrupt practices.
“We will try to ensure that these officials do not get promotions as they were involved in corruption,” added Mehra.
