CBI told to lodge FIR over alleged extortion racket inside Tihar Jail

The Delhi High Court on Monday ordered the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to register an FIR into allegations of an extortion racket operating inside Tihar Jail, allegedly involving both prison officials and inmates.

A Bench of Chief Justice DK Upadhyaya and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela described the allegations as “astonishing” and said they required “prompt” and “serious” consideration by the government.

The direction came after the court examined a CBI preliminary inquiry report that indicated the involvement of certain inmates and jail officials in “illegal and corrupt activities”.

The Bench noted that the material placed before it included call data records showing communication between persons inside and outside the prison, along with the misuse of the jail’s official landline for “promoting nefarious activities”.

“Having perused the status report and the preliminary inquiry report, we direct that based on the same, an FIR/RC be launched by the CBI and investigation be carried out. By the next date of hearing, the action taken shall be brought to our notice in a sealed cover,” the court said.

The case arises from a petition filed by a former inmate alleging extortion, irregularities and security lapses within the jail. The petition claimed that certain individuals inside and outside the prison worked in collusion with the jail authorities to secure special facilities in exchange for money.

The Bench remarked, “When it comes to providing inmates basic human needs, you fail. But whosoever is in a position to exploit the system enjoys his life there. Think about those who cannot afford such means.” It emphasised that the state bears the responsibility to ensure minimum standards for all prisoners.

Earlier, on May 2, the court had directed the Principal Secretary (Home), Delhi Government, to conduct a fact-finding inquiry into the administrative and supervisory lapses at Tihar, with the Director General (Prisons) instructed to extend full cooperation. The government on Monday sought more time to complete the inquiry.

Delhi