Minister of State for Home Harsh Sanghvi, has claimed that a stringent security system has been set up at Ahmedabad’s Sabarmati Central Jail to prevent unauthorised movement. CCTV cameras have been installed to monitor and control the entry of prohibited items.
However, despite these measures, mobile phones, contraband such as gutka, tobacco and bidi-cigarettes continue to infiltrate the jail, raising questions about the effectiveness of the security protocols.
Currently, there are 1340 inmates serving time in Sabarmati Central Jail.
As per the government figures, from 2019 to 2024, a total of 15 mobile phones, 1147 units of tobacco (Gutka), bidi, cigarettes and Rs 20,000 in cash were seized from 150 prisoners.
It allegedly suggests that the prison has become a hub of corruption. Inmates appear unafraid of the consequences, as they continue to access cash, mobile phones and tobacco products despite the presence of CCTV cameras. This situation points to a possible collusion between inmates and corrupt officials.
Despite the efforts, the prison system shows little sign of improvement. Sanghvi has conducted surprise raids in the past and yet the flow of contraband persists.
Congress MLA Imran Khedawala raised concerns about the smuggling of prohibited goods and the vacancy of officers in the jail during a coordination committee meeting.
Despite the seizure of contraband, no action has been taken against 50 prisoners who were involved. It is unclear why the government has shown mercy to the inmates.
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