Alok Kumar conducts surprise inspection; no objectionable items found in barracks
Mysuru: Alok Kumar, Director General of Police (Prisons and Correctional Services), conducted a surprise inspection at the Mysuru Central Jail yesterday, against the backdrop of the controversy over a mobile phone found with former MP Prajwal Revanna at Bengaluru’s Parappana Agrahara Central Jail.
Arriving at the prison with his staff in the morning, Alok Kumar spent more than an hour inspecting all the barracks. He also checked the factory section, trial division, punishment wing, kitchen and video-conference Court Hall.
He interacted with the inmates and prison staff, gathered information and warned some prisoners to mend their conduct.
Speaking to reporters later, Alok Kumar said no objectionable items were found during the inspection. However, he said strict measures had been ordered and improvements would be made to certain systems at the Mysuru prison.
Reports had indicated that mobile phone signals were accessible in some parts of the jail. The DGP confirmed that steps would be taken to install jammers immediately to block mobile signals.
He said complaints regarding mobile phone use and other issues had prompted the inspection.
He stressed that inmates were strictly prohibited from possessing mobile phones and warned that staff found helping prisoners violate the rules would face severe action.
“If such cases come to light, both the prisoners and the staff who assist them will be dealt with firmly,” he warned.
300 mobile phones seized
During the past eight raids at Parappana Agrahara Central Jail, authorities have seized nearly 300 mobile phones.
Alok Kumar said around 200 new inmates enter the prison every day, adding to the challenge of preventing mobile phones and SIM cards from being smuggled inside. Some inmates reportedly attempt to conceal SIM cards by swallowing them, while others hide mobile phones inside their bodies.
Despite thorough checks, preventing mobile phones from entering prisons remains a major challenge, he said. “I cannot claim with certainty that there are no mobile phones inside the prison. But efforts are being made to control the situation,” Alok Kumar said.
Prison Superintendent Asha Khan, Assistant Superintendent Mohan and other officials were present during inspection.
This post was published on September 12, 2026 7:30 pm