Patna: A detailed investigation by the Home Department’s Prison Division has revealed serious irregularities at Beur Central Jail in Patna, including an alleged private mess network operating inside multiple wards and the collection of illegal payments from inmates.
The report states that the system had been functioning for an extended period with knowledge of prison administration officials.
Private Mess Network Inside Jail
According to the findings, inmates were running private mess facilities across almost every ward of the jail. Food was reportedly cooked using illegal electric heaters, bypassing official prison norms.
Inmates were allegedly charged between Rs 6,000 and Rs 7,000 per month for access to these arrangements.
The report notes that these parallel food systems functioned alongside the official jail catering services.
Allegations Over Official Canteen System
The investigation also raised concerns about the functioning of the government-run canteen inside the prison.
It found indications that the quality of food was kept deliberately poor, allegedly to push inmates towards private arrangements. Daily-use items were also reportedly sold above Maximum Retail Price (MRP).
Audit registers related to food supplies and goods were described as outdated, raising questions over monitoring and accountability mechanisms.
Contract Staff Linked to Irregularities
The probe has also named two contractual IT programmers as being part of the alleged network. They have been removed from service and sent back to Bihar State Electronics Development Corporation Limited (BELTRON).
Officials said disciplinary action has already been taken in connection with the findings.
Disciplinary Action Against Prison Staff
The report acknowledges that the irregular system had become institutionalised over time within the prison structure.
Departmental proceedings have been initiated against eight prison staff members, including the jail superintendent and deputy superintendent of Beur Central Jail.
Authorities have indicated that further action will follow based on additional findings emerging from the investigation.
