Prison DIG Sesha visits Ballari Jail to take stock of the security of jailed actor Darshan

TP Sesha, Deputy Inspector General of Prisons (North Range), Belagavi, during his visit to Ballari Central Jail on Saturday. | Photo: SRIDHAR KAVALI

TP Sesha, Deputy Inspector General of Prisons (North Range), Belagavi, visited Ballari Central Jail on Saturday and took stock of the security conditions of murder accused actor Darshan.

Speaking to the media later, Mr. Sesha explained that the imprisoned actor had asked for a commode as he was allegedly suffering from back pain and therefore had difficulty using Indian toilets.

“We have Indian-style toilets in the prison. Darshan said he was having difficulty using them as he was suffering from back pain and demanded a commode. We will comment on this after reviewing his medical records,” Mr Sesha told media persons.

The official also expressed satisfaction with the security situation in the prison and said that all the instructions he had given to the authorities after Darshan's transfer had been followed.

“CCTV cameras have been installed at key locations, including the barrack where Darshan is lodged. I have directed the prison authorities to preserve the footage. Only the family members of the jailed actor and his lawyer will be allowed to meet him. We will not give in to any political pressure and will not allow anyone to meet him,” the DIG said.

In response to a question, he said that no one, not even prison staff, was allowed to carry mobile phones in prison.

“Currently, Ballari jail does not have a cell phone jammer. Steps are being taken to install one… If Darshan requests a television, we will provide it. This facility is also available to all other inmates,” he said.

Special officer monitors Darshan's security

Following a letter from Mr. Sesha on Thursday, Ballari Jail Superintendent R. Latha appointed Jail Warden Yallappa Somappa Dollannanavar as Special Officer to oversee the security and guard of actor Darshan.

In the service order dated 29.08.2024, the Prison Superintendent stated that the Special Security Officer will have to supervise the staff deployed for the actor's security as per the provisions of the Karnataka Prisons and Correctional Manual 2021 and submit reports after visiting the barracks from time to time. The order also clarified that the officer in charge will be held responsible for any security lapses and disciplinary action will be recommended against him.

Darshan, one of the accused in the Renukaswamy murder case in Chitradurga, was initially lodged in Parappana Agrahara Central Jail. After a photo and video showing him being given special privileges in the jail went viral on the internet, the actor was shifted to Ballari jail on Thursday.