General view of the Parappana Agrahara Jail Complex in Bengaluru. File | Photo credit: The Hindu
A dramatic twist has come in the controversy surrounding a viral video from the Parappana Agrahara Central Jail that allegedly showed inmates enjoying the luxurious facilities inside the prison.
According to officials, preliminary investigations suggest that the footage may have been part of a deliberate smear campaign targeting Director General of Police (Prison and Correctional Services) Alok Kumar. This campaign was allegedly in retaliation for a series of crackdowns on illegal activities and restrictions on VIP treatment in prisons.
According to prison sources, the footage was allegedly orchestrated by a group of inmates identified as Darshan, Abhi and Andrews, with collusion suspected from a group of staff. It is believed that the trio recorded and circulated the video to smear the reputation of prison authorities.
The alleged video recently went viral on social media platforms, leading to an investigation by the police department. The video allegedly showed inmates using cell phones, watching television and accessing streaming platforms. In one clip, inmates are heard discussing the upcoming IPL matches and portraying a comfortable lifestyle in prison. The inmates also allegedly alleged that the DGP was facilitating access to contraband.
However, initial findings suggest that the video may have been staged in retaliation for tougher enforcement measures introduced under Mr Alok Kumar.
Search operation and recovery
Following the leak of the alleged clips, prison authorities conducted a search operation in Barrack No. 9. During the inspection, officers found a mobile phone hidden in a drainage pipe, wrapped in used milk packets in an apparent attempt to avoid routine checks.
A case has been registered against these three prisoners at the Parappana Agrahara police station. They were moved to quarantine cells as part of disciplinary proceedings, officials said.
During interrogation, the accused allegedly confessed that the video was made to frame the prison authorities in response to the tightened rules.
Wardens suspended for outages
Taking serious notice of the incident, Mr. Kumar ordered the immediate suspension of three wardens, Shivananda, Niranjan A. Kamath and Hanumantappa for alleged dereliction of duty and ordered an inquiry.
The prison administration has also been ordered to submit a detailed explanation on how mobile phones got into the high-security barracks.
The police department is currently verifying whether the video was actually filmed on the prison premises or staged elsewhere to resemble prison conditions.
Investigators are also looking into the possibility that the inmates accessed cell phone signals from nearby telecommunications towers. Negotiations are underway with service providers to restrict signal access around the prison to prevent misuse.
Published – 29 March 2026 15:55 IST
