Ranchi, May 19 (IANS) Allegations of sexual exploitation of a woman inmate at the Birsa Munda Central Jail in Ranchi’s Hotwar area have sparked a political storm in Jharkhand, with the matter now reaching the Governor.

Seeking a high-level probe and action, the Jharkhand Loktantrik Krantikari Morcha (JLKM) on Tuesday submitted a memorandum to Governor Santosh Kumar Gangwar.

Meanwhile, the Jharkhand State Legal Services Authority (JHALSA) and the district administration have taken cognisance of the issue and initiated separate inquiries.

The matter came to light three days ago after Leader of Opposition Babulal Marandi wrote to Chief Minister Hemant Soren, flagging the allegations and demanding a probe into the alleged involvement of the Jail Superintendent and other officials.

The BJP has termed the issue extremely sensitive and has sought a judicial inquiry by a sitting High Court judge, along with the immediate suspension of the IG, Jails, and the Superintendent.

Following directions from JHALSA, a special team of the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) visited the jail and recorded the statement of the alleged victim. The team is expected to submit its report soon to JHALSA’s Executive Chairman, Justice S.N. Prasad.

The Jail Superintendent, Kumar Chandrashekhar, has categorically denied the allegations, claiming that the inmate is addicted to drugs and had earlier threatened to level false charges after being denied access to mobile phones and VIP facilities inside the jail.

The jail administration has also stated that a medical examination conducted under the supervision of a woman doctor found no evidence of pregnancy.

Separately, a three-member administrative inquiry committee comprising ADM, Law and Order, and SDM-level officers, constituted by Ranchi Deputy Commissioner Manjunath Bhajantri, has commenced its investigation.

In its memorandum to the Governor, the JLKM delegation said that if the allegations are found to be true, it would raise serious concerns over prison administration, security arrangements, and the safety and dignity of women inmates.

It called for an impartial probe and strict action against those found guilty.

–IANS

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