UTP Assaulted By Gangster Haider’s Son For Exposing ‘Reality’ Of Odisha’s Jharpada Jail, Probe Ordered

Bhubaneswar: DIG Prisons Anusuya Jena arrived at Jharpada Special Jail in Odisha capital on Monday to probe into the alleged attack on an under-trial prisoner (UTP) by Gangster Haider’s son Munna the previous day.

The victim, identified as Soumyakant Mohanty, sustained severe head injuries in the attack and was admitted to the Capital Hospital here for treatment. He also filed a complaint with the police regarding the assault.

According to sources, the incident occurred shortly after Mohanty wrote to Bhubaneswar District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), detailing the ongoing illegal activities inside the prison. He mentioned about rampant sale and use of marijuana within the facility and further claimed that prisoners were forced to pay exorbitant amounts for basic amenities. They were allegedly being charged Rs 50,000 for proper accommodation, Rs 5,000 for telephone access, Rs 10,000 per month for meeting with outsiders. There were also additional charges for coolers and quality food.

Following the letter, DLSA officials conducted a surprise inspection at the jail on Saturday and seized mobile phones and drugs.

It is also being alleged that though the UTP was assaulted at around 1.30 pm on Sunday, he was taken to the hospital at 6,30 pm.