Behind Bars, Beyond Control: VIP Culture and Security Breaches at Bengaluru’s Central Jail

Bengaluru: Fresh concerns over security lapses and alleged VIP treatment have surfaced at Bengaluru's Parappana Agrahara Central Jail after videos showing notorious inmates using mobile phones and watching television went viral on social media.

Among those seen in the clips are Juhad Hameed Shakeel Manna, an alleged ISIS recruiter, and Umesh Reddy, a convicted serial rapist and murderer. In one of the videos, Reddy appears to be watching TV inside his cell, while Manna is reportedly seen communicating with associates outside the prison.

Following the circulation of the videos, prison authorities have ordered an internal probe to verify the authenticity of the footage and identify those responsible for the apparent breach. "Further action will be taken based on the outcome of the investigation," sources told PTI.

Repeat Offences Raise Alarms

This is not the first time Parappana Agrahara Jail has drawn criticism for lax security. In October, a video of murder accused Srinivas, alias Gubbachi Seena, celebrating his birthday inside the jail went viral. The clip showed him cutting a cake and wearing an apple garland, surrounded by fellow inmates - all captured on mobile phones and later posted online.

Such incidents have raised serious questions about accountability and oversight within the prison, especially when it comes to managing high-risk offenders.

VIP Treatment Claims

Last year, the facility also came under fire after a photograph surfaced showing Kannada actor Darshan Thoogudeepa, accused in the Renukaswamy murder case, enjoying what appeared to be VIP privileges. He was seen sitting comfortably with a cigarette and a coffee mug, conversing with inmates including known rowdy Wilson Garden Naga.

The repeated emergence of such visuals has reignited debate over systemic corruption and negligence in Karnataka's prison administration. Officials have assured that stricter security protocols will be implemented following the ongoing inquiry.