New Delhi: The Delhi High Court has flagged serious concerns over inmate safety in Mandoli jail, indicating that the ongoing court-monitored CBI investigation into extortion and harassment inside Tihar may soon widen to include Mandoli as well.
In its recent order, the High Court directed the CBI to examine a petition filed by undertrial prisoner Farman, currently lodged in Mandoli. Farman has accused jail officials of facilitating assaults, harassment and extortion inside the prison. The court observed that the allegations point to “significant lapses” that could jeopardise the safety of any inmate.
Justice Sanjeev Narula said the CBI must treat Farman’s petition as a formal complaint. The agency is already probing similar allegations in Tihar under the supervision of a division bench.
“After a preliminary inquiry, it shall be open to the investigating officer to determine whether the allegations warrant registration of a case or can be appropriately examined as part of the ongoing investigation,” Justice Narula noted.
The court added that Farman’s claims are supported by prima facie material that “cannot be brushed aside.” It emphasised that any shortcomings in the functioning or oversight of jail premises—especially those affecting the treatment and safety of inmates—are matters of grave concern. “Any lapse that has the potential to endanger the life and well-being of persons in custody, who are under the protection of the state, warrants a fair and impartial examination,” the order stated.
Farman, an accused in an Arms Act case, alleged that on June 7, 2024, he was attacked by a group of inmates acting on instructions from jail officials. He said the assault, reportedly captured on CCTV, was part of a broader extortion network in which prisoners were forced to make digital payments under threat of violence. Despite paying substantial sums, he claimed the harassment intensified.
Jail authorities have denied the allegations but told the court they would conduct an inquiry and take strict action if any wrongdoing is established.
For now, the High Court has declined Farman’s request to be transferred to another jail. However, it said he may renew the request if the investigation substantiates his allegations.
