Viral Bengaluru Central Prison video may be staged; probe points to smear campaign

A dramatic turn has emerged in the controversy over a viral video from Parappana Agrahara Central Prison, which allegedly showed inmates enjoying luxury facilities inside the jail.

Preliminary investigations, according to officials, indicate that the footage may have been part of a deliberate smear campaign aimed at the Director General of Police (Prisons and Correctional Services), Alok Kumar. This campaign was allegedly in retaliation for a series of crackdowns on illegal activities and the curbing of VIP treatment within prisons.

According to prison sources, the footage was allegedly orchestrated by a group of inmates identified as Darshan, Abhi, and Andrews, with suspected collusion from a group of staff members. The trio is believed to have recorded and circulated the video to tarnish the reputation of senior prison authorities.

The alleged video recently went viral on social media platforms, prompting an investigation by the police department. The video purportedly showed prisoners using mobile phones, watching television, and accessing streaming platforms. In one clip, inmates were heard discussing upcoming IPL matches and portraying a comfortable lifestyle inside the jail. The inmates also allegedly made claims implicating the DGP in facilitating access to contraband.

However, initial findings suggest the video may have been staged as retaliation against stricter enforcement measures introduced under Mr. Alok Kumar’s leadership.

Search operation and recovery

Following the leak of the alleged clips, prison authorities carried out a search operation in Barrack No. 9. During the inspection, officials recovered a mobile phone hidden inside a drainage pipe, wrapped in used milk packets in an apparent attempt to evade routine checks.

A case has been registered at Parappana Agrahara Police Station against the three inmates. They have been shifted to quarantine cells as part of disciplinary action, officials said.

During questioning, the accused allegedly confessed that the video was created to frame prison authorities in response to tightened rules.

Warders suspended for lapses

Taking serious note of the incident, Mr. Kumar ordered the immediate suspension of three warders, Shivananda, Niranjan A. Kamath, and Hanumanthappa for alleged dereliction of duty and ordered a probe.

The jail administration has also been directed to submit a detailed explanation regarding how mobile phones entered a high-security barrack.

The police department is currently verifying whether the video was genuinely shot inside the prison premises or staged elsewhere to resemble jail conditions.

Investigators are also examining the possibility that inmates accessed mobile network signals from nearby telecom towers. Discussions are underway with service providers to restrict signal access around the prison to prevent misuse.