Scandal Rocks Bengaluru Prison: Seven Officials Suspended Over Viral Inmate Birthday Bash

A shocking incident has sent ripples through Karnataka's correctional system, leading to the immediate suspension of seven prison officials, including a chief superintendent, at Bengaluru's high-security Parappana Agrahara Central Prison. The drastic action comes after a video, purportedly showing an inmate's lavish birthday celebration complete with a cake and a knife, went viral on social media, exposing glaring security lapses within the facility.

The controversial video features notorious inmate 'Psycho' Sunil, who is seen cutting a birthday cake with a knife, surrounded by fellow prisoners.

The casual nature of the gathering and the apparent ease with which prohibited items like a knife were accessed within the supposedly secure confines of the prison have sparked widespread outrage and raised serious questions about the oversight and integrity of the prison administration.

Following the emergence of the incriminating footage, the state's prison authorities launched a swift investigation.

Initial findings pointed to a severe dereliction of duty on the part of the officials responsible for maintaining order and security. As a result, the Prisons ADGP, Alok Mohan, ordered the immediate suspension of seven individuals: Chief Superintendent M S Raju, four jailors — Sudhakar, Rudresh, Kariappa, and Paramesh — and two warders, Veeranna and Harish.

This decisive action underscores the seriousness with which the authorities are treating the breach.

The incident is not an isolated one for the Parappana Agrahara prison, which has unfortunately garnered a reputation for controversies. Memories are still fresh of the scandal involving former AIADMK leader V K Sasikala, who was accused of receiving preferential treatment and amenities during her incarceration, leading to further investigations and public criticism.

This latest episode only serves to reinforce public doubts about the prison's operational standards and the effectiveness of its security protocols.

The viral video has ignited a fierce debate on prison reforms, the accountability of officials, and the urgent need to curb illicit activities within correctional facilities.

Authorities have assured the public that a thorough inquiry will be conducted to identify all those responsible for the lapse and to implement stringent measures to prevent such incidents from recurring, aiming to restore public confidence in the state's prison management.