Darshan jail controversy: Investigation against jail officials awaiting authorization

Team Udayavani, Dec 8, 2024, 12:27 PM IST

An ongoing investigation into three separate cases involving actor Darshan and several jail officials at Parappana Agrahara Central Jail is facing a delay due to pending authorization. The investigation centers around allegations of special treatment given to Darshan, illegal use of mobile phones by inmates, and the removal of boxes from a barrack containing wanted criminals.

The Southeast Division DCP, Sarah Fatima, had sought permission from the prison and home departments over a month ago to proceed with the inquiry against the jail officials involved. However, no response has been received so far, leaving the investigation at a standstill.

On October 26, 2024, three separate FIRs were registered at Parappana Agrahara Police Station in connection with the scandal. Actor Darshan is named as a key accused in two of the cases, while seven jail officials are implicated in the third. The cases are being investigated by senior ACP-level officers, who have already recorded statements from Darshan, Wilson Garden Nag, Kulla Seena, Nagraj, Johnny alias Janardhan, and other jail personnel.

The investigation has uncovered evidence of corruption within the jail. Wilson Garden Nag and other associates allegedly bribed jail officials to provide special privileges to Darshan and Nag, including allowing mobile phone use by inmates. Furthermore, when CCB officers conducted a raid at the jail, it was revealed that jail officials deliberately delayed the operation for nearly an hour, allowing time to move boxes from certain barracks, which had been deliberately kept out of sight.

In the wake of these revelations, Home Minister Parameshwara and Prison DGP Malini Krishnamurthy visited the Parappana Agrahara Jail for an on-site inspection. Following this, nine jail officials, including Chief Superintendent Sheshmurthy and Superintendent Mallikarjuna Swamy, were suspended pending further investigation.

While the investigation has hit a roadblock due to the lack of authorization, authorities are hopeful that the necessary approvals will be granted soon, allowing the inquiry to proceed. The case has raised serious questions about corruption and misconduct within the prison system, and the public is awaiting further developments.