Bengaluru Inmates Stage Hunger Strike Following Crackdown on Contraband and Enhanced Prison Security

The hunger strike was terminated on Tuesday following threats of severe consequences from jail authorities.

This protest stands out as one of the most unusual demonstrations in recent memory.

Inmates at Bengaluru's Parappana Agrahara Central Jail conducted a three-day hunger strike following a major crackdown on illegal activities within the facility. The protest came after viral videos emerged showing prisoners using mobile phones, consuming alcohol, and engaging in parties.

In response to the controversy, numerous prison staff members were either transferred or suspended, and the state government promised rigorous measures to address corruption within the jail. A more stringent monitoring system was implemented to prevent smuggling of prohibited items, causing discontent among many prisoners.

According to sources, the inmates initiated a protest by refusing meals for three days, only ending their demonstration on Tuesday evening when jail authorities threatened strict punitive measures.

The protest began when the new administration blocked the unauthorized supply of bidis, cigarettes, and other banned items within the facility.

Substantial reforms were introduced after viral videos revealed widespread violations, leading to IPS officer Anshu Kumar's appointment as the new Chief Superintendent, replacing the previous officer who was transferred.

Initial actions included a comprehensive ban on smuggling bidis and cigarettes, already prohibited under the jail manual. A specialized search team formed to enforce these regulations confiscated mobile phones, cigarettes, and various contraband during unexpected inspections.

Officials report that inmates were demanding the reinstatement of bidis and cigarettes. A group of prisoners organized a sit-in protest in front of the administrative block, insisting on the restoration of these items.

Chief Superintendent Kumar confirmed the protest's conclusion, stating that "airport-level" security screening has been established.

"We recently seized approximately 50 mobile phones and completely halted the illegal supply of items inside the prison. Security screening has been enhanced to airport-level standards. The protest ended when inmates realized that further disruption would result in severe consequences. Police remained on standby throughout, and we have identified the primary instigators and issued them strict warnings," Kumar stated.

"We will not tolerate any illegal activity. No banned or prohibited articles will be permitted inside the prison under any circumstances. Staff and visitor screening has been intensified, and Karnataka State Industrial Security Force personnel have been instructed to thoroughly examine everything entering the premises. Four baggage scanners are currently operational. The prison has been divided into four zones, and mixing of different prisoner categories is no longer allowed. This has significantly reduced illegal activities," he added.