In a startling revelation that exposes deep-rooted corruption within India's largest prison complex, the Delhi High Court has uncovered a sophisticated extortion racket operating from within Tihar Jail. The investigation has put additional chief secretary of the home department under intense scrutiny, revealing how inmates were systematically exploiting the system for illegal financial gains.
The High Court's Stern Intervention
The Delhi High Court, taking serious note of the organized crime network functioning from behind bars, has demanded immediate action against all involved officials. The court expressed grave concern over how prisoners were able to establish and operate such an extensive extortion network while incarcerated.
How the Racket Operated
The modus operandi involved multiple layers of manipulation and coercion:
- Inmates used privileged access to communication channels to threaten and extort money
- Collusion with certain jail staff enabled unauthorized activities
- Sophisticated methods were employed to bypass security protocols
- The network targeted vulnerable individuals outside the prison walls
Administrative Accountability Under Scanner
The investigation has particularly focused on the role of senior administrative officials, including the additional chief secretary of the home department. The High Court has questioned how such activities could continue undetected under the nose of top-level administration, pointing to serious lapses in oversight and monitoring mechanisms.
Systemic Reforms Demanded
Legal experts and prison reform activists have long warned about the vulnerability of India's prison systems to such organized criminal activities. This case has highlighted the urgent need for:
- Enhanced surveillance and monitoring systems within prisons
- Strict accountability measures for prison staff
- Regular audits of prisoner activities and communications
- Strengthened whistleblower protection mechanisms
The Delhi High Court continues to monitor the investigation closely, emphasizing that such breaches of security in high-profile prisons cannot be tolerated. The case has sent shockwaves through the law enforcement community and raised serious questions about the effectiveness of prison administration in the national capital.
