PANJIM: The Prisons Department is likely to send a reminder to the State government seeking its approval for a magisterial inquiry into the ‘bhang party’ at Colvale Central Jail that resulted in the suspension of five jail staff and an FIR against a prisoner under trial.
After the bhang party in the jail premises last month, the department suspended five Colvale prison staff holding them prima facie responsible for the illegal activity. Inspector General of Prisons Rajendra Mirajkar, in its action taken report to the government, had also proposed a magisterial inquiry for an in-depth inquiry. With no response to this suggestion, the IGP is expected to write to the government next week on the issue.
“The file is presently under examination with the Chief Secretary, since Chief Minister (Manohar Parrikar) is under medical treatment. Although the department had taken swift action in the matter and the police are probing the case, a magisterial inquiry could unearth many hidden facts. We will most likely send a reminder letter to the government next week,” an officer said.
Also, ahead of Holi celebrations, Mirajkar has issued strict instructions to the staff to ensure the episode is not repeated. “I have asked jail personnel on duty to maintain a close watch on the prisoners round the clock, so that they don’t indulge in any illegal activity again,” he told Herald claiming the instructions are a precautionary measure.
Assistant Jailor Shivprasad Lotlikar, head guard Rajendra Wadkar and jail guards Caitan Godinho, Vijay Desai and Kiran Naik were suspended pending a departmental inquiry, following an inquiry report from Colvale Jail Superintendent V M Prabhudesai.
Inmate Anil Bhuye, a cook in the jail kitchen is facing police probe for allegedly supplying the drink to the inmates and staff.
