The Delhi High Court on Thursday directed the Delhi government to expedite disciplinary proceedings against officials allegedly involved in running an extortion racket inside Tihar Jail.
A bench of Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela instructed the Vigilance Department to appoint an inquiry officer within two weeks and ensure the investigation is completed without delay.
The court passed the order after the Additional Chief Secretary (Home) informed that he would personally pursue the matter with the vigilance wing to ensure that an officer is promptly designated and the inquiry concluded swiftly.
“Once the official is appointed, the requisite formality such as constitution of charge sheet, its approval and conclusion shall also be undertaken within this short span of time,” the bench observed.
The direction came while the court was hearing a petition flagging illegalities, malpractices, and misconduct within Tihar Jail, including allegations that an extortion racket was being operated by inmates in collusion with certain jail officials.
The plea had sought judicial intervention to curb corruption and unlawful activities inside the high-security prison. The court’s order now places responsibility squarely on the Delhi government to ensure accountability and transparency in the inquiry process.
