What Are Karnataka Police Seeking from META Regarding 'Prison Videos'?
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Synopsis
The Karnataka Police are intensifying their investigation into disturbing prison videos that showcase luxury amenities availed by notorious criminals, including a serial rapist and suspected terrorists. With a request sent to Meta for details on the WhatsApp accounts involved, the case raises serious questions about prison oversight and national security.
Key Takeaways
- Karnataka Police are investigating disturbing prison videos.
- Videos show inmates enjoying luxury amenities.
- Meta has been contacted for information on WhatsApp accounts.
- Concerns over national security due to access by suspected terrorists.
- Police are questioning various individuals linked to the case.
Bengaluru, Nov 19 (NationPress) Karnataka Police have reached out to Meta requesting information about WhatsApp accounts that disseminated alleged prison videos depicting a serial rapist, murderer, and terrorist enjoying luxurious amenities within the Bengaluru Central Prison.
The Parappana Agrahara police, currently probing the matter, have contacted Meta to investigate the circulation of these videos. They have included the videos in their email and requested details about the accounts responsible for uploading them.
The police are looking for insights into the mobile devices used to record the videos and the phone numbers from which they were shared.
Additionally, they have asked for specifics regarding the WhatsApp accounts to which the videos were sent.
According to the authorities, Meta has the capability to provide the IP addresses and mobile numbers linked to the video sharing. The police are currently awaiting a response from Meta.
Investigations revealed that one video, depicting inmates consuming alcohol, non-vegetarian meals, and celebrating inside the prison, was filmed in 2023. Another video, featuring liquor bottles on an English newspaper dated November 6, 2025, is a more recent addition.
Law enforcement has questioned a prisoner from Bengaluru Central Jail, suspected of recording the videos inside the facility.
The inmate claimed his mobile phone was confiscated during raids in 2023 and insisted he had no knowledge of how the videos became public.
Police have also interrogated actor Dhanveer twice regarding the matter, as there were suspicions that the videos were disseminated from his device. He was questioned about the recipients of the videos before they went viral.
During questioning, he reportedly did not cooperate. However, upon retrieving his mobile data, investigators found evidence indicating the videos were received on his phone.
Dhanveer asserted that he did not make the videos public, stating that he received them from a lawyer and forwarded them to jailed actor Darshan's wife, Vijayalakshmi.
Investigators are now considering summoning Vijayalakshmi for questioning. Senior officials have mandated that anyone suspected of involvement in the case be interrogated.
Previously, videos showcasing VIP treatment given to infamous rapist and serial killer Umesh Reddy, along with close associate of gold smuggling suspect Ranya Rao, Tarun Raju, and a suspected ISIS terrorist, gained significant attention on social media, raising concerns about prison administration.
The alleged video features notorious serial offender Umesh Reddy, currently imprisoned in Parappana Agrahara Central Jail, Bengaluru. Reports indicate that Reddy is leading a comfortable life in prison, utilizing two Android phones and a keypad mobile for communication.
Reddy, one of India's most infamous serial rapists, was convicted of assaulting approximately 20 women and murdering 18 between 1996 and 2002.
Initially sentenced to death, he later appealed for clemency, citing mental health issues. However, evaluations at NIMHANS Hospital indicated he was mentally sound.
Telugu actor Tarun Rao, arrested in the Ranya Rao gold smuggling case, is alleged to be enjoying a lavish lifestyle behind bars, as depicted in the video, which shows him with access to a mobile phone and television within his cell.
Even more concerning are claims that the videos also feature foreign and domestic suspected terrorists, including an alleged ISIS member residing in Bengaluru Central, using mobile phones for communication.
It is further alleged that members of Lashkar-e-Taiba and other extremist groups have access to smartphones within this high-security facility, raising profound concerns regarding national security.
Several videos surfaced in early November, leading to considerable embarrassment for prison authorities.
Previously, the Supreme Court issued a stern warning to take measures ensuring that prison inmates do not enjoy any luxury amenities, particularly while reviewing the fan murder case involving Kannada superstar Darshan.
Karnataka Police had apprehended a BJP leader on charges of making derogatory remarks against State Home Minister G. Parameshwara in connection with the alleged luxury treatment afforded to terrorists and notorious criminals inside Bengaluru Central Prison.
Point of View
It is imperative to approach this situation with a focus on transparency and accountability. The implications of luxury amenities for inmates, particularly those with serious criminal backgrounds, must be critically examined to ensure that justice prevails and public trust in the legal system is maintained.
NationPress
19/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted Karnataka Police to contact Meta?
Karnataka Police sought information from Meta regarding WhatsApp accounts that shared videos showing alleged luxury facilities enjoyed by prisoners, including a serial rapist and a suspected terrorist.
What do the videos depict?
The videos allegedly show inmates consuming alcohol, non-vegetarian food, and having parties inside the prison, raising concerns about prison conditions.
Who is Umesh Reddy?
Umesh Reddy is a notorious serial rapist and murderer, convicted for the assault and murder of multiple women, and is currently incarcerated in Bengaluru Central Jail.
What actions have police taken so far?
Police have questioned inmates, including actor Dhanveer, and are investigating the sources of the videos while awaiting a response from Meta.
What are the implications of this situation for national security?
The allegations of terrorists accessing mobile phones inside a high-security prison raise significant concerns regarding oversight and security within the prison system.
