The Delhi High Court has raised strong concerns about alleged assaults, extortion rackets, and administrative lapses inside Mandoli Jail, calling the claims “matters of serious concern” that warrant thorough investigation.
Justice Sanjeev Narula made the observations while hearing a petition filed by Farman, an undertrial prisoner in an Arms Act case, who alleged that he and other inmates were being harassed and assaulted at the behest of jail officials to extort money through digital payment channels.
In an order dated November 7, the court directed that the petition be treated as a complaint by the investigating officer in the CBI’s court-monitored probe already underway on similar allegations.
The judge said the investigating officer may, after preliminary inquiry, decide whether a separate FIR should be registered or whether the allegations can be examined within the existing investigation.
Justice Narula noted that the claims made by the inmate appear supported by prima facie material and cannot be brushed aside.
The court observed:
“Alleged lapses in the administration and supervision of jail premises, particularly those relating to the safety and treatment of inmates, raise matters of serious 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 through appropriate mechanisms.”
Farman alleged that he was beaten by fellow inmates on June 7, 2024, “acting on the instructions of jail officials,” and claimed the incident was captured on CCTV. He further said this was part of a larger pattern where inmates were forced to make digital payments under threats of further violence.
Despite paying “substantial amounts,” he claimed the threats and mistreatment only intensified.
Counsel for the authorities denied all allegations and informed the court that the CBI has already registered an FIR under Sections 386 and 120B of the IPC, Section 61(2) read with Section 308(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, and Section 7 of the Prevention of Corruption Act for similar complaints.
The Delhi Government’s Directorate of Vigilance has also appointed an inquiry officer to examine possible administrative lapses inside the jail.
The inmate had sought to be transferred from Mandoli Jail to another district prison. The court declined to grant this relief at this stage but said that if the investigation or inquiry substantiates his claims, he may seek appropriate remedies before the competent forum.
