A serious allegation of rape inside Ranchi’s Birsa Munda Central Jail has triggered multiple investigations by the district administration, jail authorities, and legal bodies. A woman inmate has claimed that she was raped by two jail staff members, prompting a high-level probe.
According to officials, a joint investigation team constituted by the Jharkhand State Legal Services Authority (JHALSA) and the Jail Inspector General visited the prison and questioned the woman prisoner. During the inquiry, she reportedly described the incident in detail and alleged that she was subjected to physical relations against her will. She also named two jail personnel allegedly involved in the abuse.
The matter has raised serious concerns about safety inside the prison system.
Woman Inmate Alleges Sexual Assault, Names Jail Staff
The woman prisoner told investigators that she was raped inside the jail premises. Officials confirmed that she gave a statement describing repeated abuse and identified two individuals posted in the jail as responsible.
Following the complaint, the woman has reportedly stopped eating since Sunday night. Jail sources said she refused food on Monday as well and remained quiet and distressed throughout the day.
“Allegations Are False,” Says Jail Superintendent
Jail Superintendent Chandrashekhar Kushwaha rejected the allegations during questioning by the investigation team. He said, “The allegations of sexual exploitation are completely baseless and fabricated.” He submitted a written statement denying any wrongdoing.
Meanwhile, former Chief Minister Babulal Marandi has also raised allegations against the jail administration, including claims that the woman inmate was pregnant, further intensifying the controversy.
Multiple Teams Conduct Parallel Investigations
The Jail IG Sudarshan Mandal has ordered an internal inquiry and formed a three-member committee to examine the case. The team inspected CCTV footage from the jail, reviewed medical reports from the jail hospital, and recorded statements of the woman inmate and staff members. The probe lasted nearly three hours.
Separately, the district administration formed another committee led by the Additional District Magistrate (Law and Order). This team is also conducting an independent investigation and is expected to submit its report soon.
Officials said, “The report has not yet been submitted. CCTV footage and other evidence will be examined if required.”
Legal Services Authority Steps In, Orders Protection and Aid
The Jharkhand State Legal Services Authority has also taken cognisance of the matter. A JHALSA team visited the jail and found that complaint boxes were not installed in some wards. Authorities have now directed the jail administration to install them within two days.
A detailed report has been submitted, and legal aid has been provided to the woman prisoner. She has been assigned a free lawyer from the legal aid panel, and officials have been instructed to ensure her proper care and protection.
Governor Flags Serious Concern Over Jail Safety
Governor Santosh Kumar Gangwar has taken serious note of the allegations, calling them a violation of human rights and women’s safety inside prisons. He said strict action must be taken if wrongdoing is confirmed and directed authorities to ensure accountability.
