Former Inmate Files Police Complaint Over Missing Gold Ornaments After Jail Release
A former inmate of the Choudwar circle jail in Cuttack has lodged a formal police complaint against the prison's senior superintendent, Sujit Kumar Raula, alleging that her gold ornaments were not returned when she was released on bail. The incident, reported on Sunday, has sparked a dispute involving multiple jail officials and highlights ongoing tensions within the prison administration.
Details of the Allegations and the Ornaments in Question
The woman, who was sent to prison on September 23 last year in connection with a criminal case, claims she deposited her personal gold jewelry with the jail authorities for safekeeping. According to her complaint, the items included a pair of earrings, a gold ring, and a nose ring. She alleges that upon her release on bail on December 23, the jail staff failed to return these ornaments, despite her repeated requests and inquiries.
In her statement to the police, she expressed frustration over the loss of her valuable possessions, which she had entrusted to the prison system. The police have confirmed that her complaint is currently under verification, with investigations underway to determine the facts of the case.
Jail Superintendent's Response and Counter-Allegations
Senior Superintendent Sujit Kumar Raula has firmly dismissed the allegations, shifting the blame to a former jailer. He stated, "Former jailer Santoshini Dash had taken the ornaments into her custody. She did not hand them over to us when she was transferred." This claim suggests a possible mishandling or miscommunication during the transfer of responsibilities between jail officials.
However, Santoshini Dash has refuted Raula's allegation, denying any involvement in the missing ornaments. Her rebuttal adds another layer of complexity to the dispute, pointing to a broader conflict within the jail's management structure.
Background of Tensions and Previous Incidents
This dispute emerges against a backdrop of existing tension between Sujit Kumar Raula and Santoshini Dash. Both officials were recently issued show-cause notices by the prisons directorate after they filed police complaints against each other. These complaints accused one another of negligence in connection with last year's Choudwar jailbreak incident, which had raised serious security concerns.
The ongoing friction between Raula and Dash underscores deeper administrative issues within the prison system, potentially affecting inmate welfare and procedural integrity. The current complaint over the gold ornaments may further strain their professional relationship and prompt closer scrutiny from higher authorities.
As the police continue to verify the facts, this case highlights the need for robust protocols in handling inmates' personal belongings and ensuring accountability among jail staff. The outcome could have implications for prison management practices in Odisha and beyond.
