Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru

Mangaluru, Dec 23: As part of efforts to bring reforms to prisons across the state, newly appointed director general of police (prisons) Alok Kumar visited the Mangaluru District Jail on Tuesday, December 23, and conducted a comprehensive inspection.

Speaking to the media, Alok Kumar said that all prisons in the state will be inspected in a phased manner. He noted that Mangaluru Jail is located in a sensitive area and, therefore, special priority has been given to its security arrangements. He added that inmates who were found violating discipline and indulging in disturbances inside the jail have already been identified and shifted to prisons in other districts.

The DGP said a detailed investigation will be conducted into how mobile phones are being supplied inside the jail, and strict action will be taken. He also referred to complaints regarding issues with mobile jammers and said a meeting would be held soon to address the problem and introduce improvements using modern technology.

Alok Kumar said AI-based cameras have already been installed on a pilot basis in Bengaluru and Mysuru jails. A decision will be taken in the coming days on installing similar systems at Mangaluru District Jail as well.

He also spoke about the new jail being constructed at Mudipu, stating that the work is still pending. He said he would soon meet the home minister in this regard and submit a request, adding that local public representatives also need to draw the government’s attention to the matter.

The DGP further said efforts will be made, through the Legal Services Authority, to assist inmates who are unable to secure release due to financial difficulties.

Mangaluru city police commissioner Sudhir Kumar Reddy, SP Dr Arun, jail superintendent Sharanabasappa and other senior officials were present during the inspection.