Prisons told to probe bribe collection from inmates

The Upalokayukta has directed senior authorities of the Prisons department to hold an inquiry on a postal complaint against an official of the Bangalore Central Prisons at the Parappana Agrahara.

The complaint stated that during the early release of 147 prisoners on good behaviour in September 2015, a manager at the prison had collected Rs 1,000 each before handing over the wages to the prisoners.

A total of 252 prisoners were released on September 19, 2015 from prisons across the State. Similarly, 147 prisoners were released from Parappana Agrahara prison.
The complaint to Upalokayukta was signed by few persons alleging that a manager has demanded and accepted money. The complaint stated that the manager has asked the prisoners to part with Rs 1,000 to get their wages, ranging from Rs 30,000 to Rs 40,000.

“The complaint stated that during the period of conviction, the prisoners have earned a certain amount as wages. However, to get the said amount during the time of release, the manager has received Rs 1,000 from every prisoner. The allegation appears to be serious and inhuman. I have directed the prison authority to hold an inquiry and submit the report,” Upalokayukta Justice Subhash B Adi said.

The Upalokayukta has directed the Additional Director General of Police (Prisons) Kamal Pant to hold an inquiry and submit a report not later than November 6, 2015.