Ayodhya Jailbreak Scandal Deepens: Another Deputy Jailer Suspended as Total Suspensions Reach Twelve
LUCKNOW: The Uttar Pradesh Prisons Department has intensified its crackdown on officials following the dramatic escape of two high-risk inmates from Ayodhya District Jail, with the Director General of Prisons suspending another deputy jailer on Friday. This latest disciplinary action brings the total number of officials suspended in connection with the jailbreak case to twelve, including the jail superintendent, as departmental proceedings continue against the erring officers.
Escalating Disciplinary Actions Following January Jailbreak
The incident, which has sent shockwaves through the state's prison administration, occurred on the night of January 28 when two inmates managed to flee after breaking through the wall of their barrack. The escapees were identified as Golu Agrahari alias Suraj, a resident of Musafirkhana in Amethi district, and Sher Ali from Sultanpur. Both prisoners face serious criminal charges including murder, dacoity, and rape, making their escape a matter of grave security concern.
Based on the inquiry report submitted by DIG Prisons, Ayodhya Range, Shailendra Kumar Maitreya, disciplinary action had earlier been taken against Jail Superintendent Uday Pratap Mishra, Jailer Jitendra Kumar Yadav, Deputy Jailer Mayank Tripathi, Head Jail Warders Harihar Prasad and Tripurari Mishra, and jail warders Suresh Kumar Dubey, Jaiprakash Yadav, Sunil Kumar, Ramesh Sahani, Ravi Yadav and Manoj.
Latest Suspension Reveals Serious Security Lapses
On Friday, Deputy Jailer Raju alias Rajdeep became the latest official to face suspension after the ongoing investigation revealed serious lapses in duty. DIG Shailendra Kumar stated that inmates are normally sent to barracks only after thorough evening checks, but the probe uncovered that the escaped prisoners had managed to carry tools inside their barrack. These tools were subsequently used to remove bricks from the wall and facilitate their escape, indicating that mandatory frisking procedures were completely neglected.
The responsibility for conducting these essential security checks lay directly with the now-suspended deputy jailer, highlighting a critical breakdown in prison protocol that allowed the dangerous inmates to execute their escape plan.
Investigation Uncovers Further Negligence
Director General of Prisons PC Meena emphasized that additional negligence had come to light during the continuing investigation, necessitating further suspensions beyond the initial disciplinary actions. He confirmed that a detailed probe is actively ongoing and strict action will be taken against all officials found responsible for security failures.
The prison administration has made it clear that no leniency will be shown toward officials who compromise security protocols, especially when dealing with high-risk inmates involved in serious criminal cases. The systematic suspension of twelve officials so far demonstrates the department's commitment to addressing security vulnerabilities and holding personnel accountable for their duties.
As the investigation progresses, authorities are examining all aspects of prison security protocols and personnel responsibilities to prevent similar incidents in the future. The case has raised significant questions about security measures in district jails and the effectiveness of current monitoring systems for dangerous inmates.
