Jharkhand HC Questions IG Prisons Over Viral Inmate Dance Video?
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Synopsis
The Jharkhand High Court's swift action on a viral video showing inmates dancing in prison highlights major security concerns. With officials suspended and an investigation underway, the court's stern response emphasizes the need for accountability in prison management. Will this lead to significant reforms in the state's correctional facilities?
Key Takeaways
- High Court's swift action highlights security concerns.
- Investigation initiated into prison management failures.
- Use of mobile phones inside prison raises alarms.
- Inmates implicated in serious financial crimes were involved.
- Next hearing set for November 18.
Ranchi, Nov 14 (NationPress) The Jharkhand High Court has initiated suo motu proceedings regarding a viral clip depicting inmates dancing within the confines of Birsa Munda Central Jail in Hotwar, Ranchi. This incident has raised significant alarms about the security and management of the state's correctional facilities.
During a session on Friday, a division bench led by Chief Justice Tarlok Singh Chauhan expressed profound concern over the situation, questioning how such a serious lapse could happen in a high-security environment.
The court has ordered the Inspector General of Prisons to appear personally at the next hearing and has mandated the submission of the DVR that holds the original CCTV footage related to the occurrence.
Describing the video as both “unfortunate” and “shameful,” the bench pointed out that the incident highlights significant failings within the prison administration.
It was also noted that the footage suggests the illegal use of mobile phones inside the jail, a breach that has been repeatedly highlighted as a major security concern in various prisons throughout India.
The judges raised questions about how inmates, including those charged with serious financial crimes, were able to convene in a designated area and partake in such activities without the prison authorities' awareness.
Advocate Piyush Chitresh, representing the state, informed the court that the jail administration had taken swift action following the video's emergence. Jailer Devnath Ram and Jamadar Vinod Yadav were suspended, and a comprehensive inquiry was launched.
The investigation uncovered that the video was filmed in a special hall of the jail and featured two inmates - Vidhu Gupta and Siddharth Singhania - who are both implicated in liquor and GST scam cases. They were imprisoned at the time but have since been released.
The court labeled the incident a serious administrative failure, declaring that permitting such actions and enabling inmates to film videos within the prison is “absolutely unacceptable under any circumstances.”
The case is set to be revisited on November 18, during which the IG Prisons is expected to present themselves before the court.
Point of View
I believe that the Jharkhand High Court's intervention in this matter underscores the urgent need for reform within the prison system. The reported lapses in security, particularly in high-security facilities, are concerning. It is essential that prison authorities ensure strict compliance with regulations to maintain safety and order. This incident serves as a wake-up call for the administration, urging them to take decisive action to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
NationPress
14/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the Jharkhand High Court to take action?
The High Court responded to a viral video showing inmates dancing in Birsa Munda Central Jail, which raised serious security concerns.
What actions have been taken by the jail administration?
Following the video's emergence, the jailer and a staff member were suspended, and a multi-level inquiry was initiated.
When will the matter be heard again?
The case is scheduled for another hearing on November 18.
Who were the inmates involved in the video?
The video featured inmates Vidhu Gupta and Siddharth Singhania, both implicated in liquor and GST scam cases.
What concerns did the court express?
The court questioned the prison's management and the presence of mobile phones, highlighting severe lapses in security.
