Security of Jails in India - Root Causes
Indian Police Foundation
Security of Jails in India - Key Issues
1. Inmates have easy access to mobile phones
2. Outsiders are allowed to meet the inmates during meeting hours
3. CCTV cameras in most of the jails do not work
4. Many jails are understaffed with respect to the security staff
5. Security staff takes bribes from the inmates to smuggle stuff inside
6. Metal detectors inside the jail do not work
7. Shifts changes do not happen smoothly leaving security concerns
8. Inmates can choose cells/partners by paying off the security guards
9. Security personnel meant for the jail are assigned to the homes of senior officers to help them
10. The ratio of jail staff including the officers versus prisoners are always inadequate
11. Staffs do not carry weapons while mingling with prisoners and routinely. They carry lathis
12. Only the staff who are guarding on watch tower and gates carry outdated 303 bolt action rifles
13. Some prisoners enjoy all comforts in the jail as they have money to spend
14. The hard core prisoners form gangs to oppress ordinary one and get their menial jobs done
15. In some jails, jail staff takes money for not beating up prisoners
16. Sexual offences take place even inside the jail and the staff knows about it. more