Did the Jharkhand HC take action against the Ranchi jail dance party?
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Synopsis
The Jharkhand High Court has taken significant action regarding a viral video of inmates dancing in Birsa Munda Central Jail, leading to the suspension of officials and a demand for urgent administrative changes. This incident raises serious concerns about prison management and inmate conduct.
Key Takeaways
- Jharkhand HC orders prompt action following viral jail video.
- Appointment of a regular jail superintendent mandated within 48 hours.
- Strict measures against inmate access to mobile phones and intoxicants.
- Suspension of officials involved in the incident.
- Next court hearing set for January 5.
Ranchi, Nov 18 (NationPress) The Jharkhand High Court addressed a suo motu PIL concerning a viral clip that depicts inmates involved in liquor and GST scams engaging in dance within the confines of Birsa Munda Central Jail in Hotwar, Ranchi.
Present at the session was the state’s Inspector General of Prisons.
Describing the event as “shameful” and “unfortunate”, the bench led by Chief Justice Tarlok Singh Chauhan mandated that the state government appoint a permanent jail superintendent within 48 hours.
The court noted that the lack of a regular superintendent raises substantial concerns regarding the management of state prisons.
Strict directives were issued to ensure that inmates are prohibited from accessing mobile devices, chargers, or any substances that could lead to intoxication under any circumstances.
Additionally, the court mandated unannounced inspections by both jail and police authorities at regular intervals to monitor any misconduct.
Questioning the ability of inmates facing serious allegations to conduct such activities in a high-security setting, the bench highlighted that the video evidenced the presence of mobile phones within the jail.
In a previous session on November 14, the court had already voiced its worries about the prison system, summoning the IG Prisons and requesting the jail’s CCTV DVR.
The state’s legal representative informed the court that, post-incident, Jailer Devnath Ram and an official, Vinod Yadav, had been suspended.
A preliminary investigation revealed that the dance event occurred in a designated hall within the jail.
The inmates featured in the video -- Vidhu Gupta and Siddharth Singhania -- are implicated in liquor and GST scam cases.
Though they were incarcerated at the time of the incident, they have since been released.
The court remarked that such occurrences signify a serious failure in prison administration and “cannot be tolerated under any circumstances”.
The case is set for its next hearing on January 5.
Point of View
This incident underscores a critical failure in prison administration, highlighting the need for robust governance and oversight mechanisms within the correctional system. The response from the Jharkhand High Court reflects a commitment to accountability, ensuring that such lapses are addressed promptly to uphold the integrity of the justice system.
NationPress
18/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the Jharkhand HC's involvement?
The Jharkhand High Court intervened after a viral video surfaced showing inmates dancing in Birsa Munda Central Jail, raising serious concerns about prison management and inmate conduct.
What actions did the court take?
The court ordered the state government to appoint a permanent jail superintendent within 48 hours and mandated strict measures to prevent inmates from accessing mobile phones and intoxicants.
Who were the inmates involved in the incident?
The inmates featured in the video, Vidhu Gupta and Siddharth Singhania, are accused of involvement in liquor and GST scams.
What consequences did jail officials face?
Following the incident, Jailer Devnath Ram and another official, Vinod Yadav, were suspended.
When is the next hearing scheduled?
The next hearing for this case is scheduled for January 5.
