Bengaluru, August 12: Karnataka’s Home Minister Priyank Kharge announced on Wednesday that he personally ordered a raid by the Central Crime Branch (CCB) at the Parappana Agrahara Central Jail in Bengaluru. During this operation, over ten mobile phones were confiscated, including one allegedly found in the barrack of former MP Prijwal Revanna.
According to police reports, the mobile phone recovered from Revanna’s barrack contained several OTT apps. In response to this discovery, Priyank Kharge stated that such raids require permission from the Home Department and the Chief Minister.
He remarked, “I ordered the CCB raid. Approval from the Home Department is essential for such operations. I visited Parappana Agrahara Jail two weeks ago and noticed several deficiencies. After obtaining the Chief Minister’s approval, I issued the order for the raid.”
Kharge indicated that the action was based on information received from officials, and he has instructed the suspension of those who facilitated irregularities within the jail.
He added, “Based on the information from officials, I ordered the raid. Those who promoted these irregularities have been directed to be suspended.”
The Home Minister emphasized that such actions will not be limited to Parappana Agrahara Jail but will extend to all prisons in Karnataka. He stated that regular inspections are necessary.
“This is not limited to Parappana Agrahara. Such actions will be conducted in all state prisons. Some officials are not abandoning their old habits, and action is being taken against them,” he said.
Kharge also mentioned that disciplinary actions against jail officials will follow established rules and service conditions.
He explained, “Such incidents can occur, but that does not mean immediate punishment is warranted. Within two months of taking charge of the department, I ensured the raid and initiated action. There are specific procedures for taking action against officials and dismissing them from service that must be followed.”
The CCB raid on Tuesday resulted in the seizure of over ten mobile phones from various parts of the jail, including the barrack where Prijwal Revanna is incarcerated. Additionally, chargers and other prohibited items were confiscated.
DGP of the Jail Department, Alok Kumar, reported that the assistant superintendent, Iranna, has been suspended for negligence, while the jail superintendent, Anshukumar, has been issued a show-cause notice.
Alok Kumar confirmed that a mobile phone and charger were recovered from Prijwal Revanna’s barrack, which contained several OTT apps. He stated that an investigation will also determine whether the jail’s Wi-Fi network was misused.
He remarked, “No one should receive VIP treatment. Detailed information about all items seized during the raid cannot be disclosed at this moment. This raid serves as a message to the officials.”
He noted that further information will be made public only after the seizure and documentation process is completed. A thorough investigation will be conducted to ascertain how prohibited items entered the jail and whether any officials or other individuals were involved.
Alok Kumar warned jail officials that if any officer is found colluding with inmates, strict action will be taken against them.
He stated, “If any officer’s involvement is proven, they will be suspended without hesitation. The government provides you with a job and salary, so you must remain honest in your duties.”
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