South Asia's Largest Prison To Be Shifted To Delhi Outskirts, Rs 10 Crore Allocated For Survey

The Delhi Government has decided to allocate Rs 10 crore for surveys and consultations to relocate the Tihar Jail to the outskirts of the city due to security concerns.

File photo of the Tihar jail gates in Delhi.

Source : PTI

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has announced a major decision regarding Tihar Jail, South Asia’s largest prison. The Delhi government plans to relocate Tihar Jail to the city’s outskirts, citing security concerns and the need for administrative improvements.

As part of the 2025-26 budget, the government has allocated Rs 10 crore for surveys and consultations related to the relocation. Established in 1958, Tihar Central Jail is one of India’s largest prison complexes, covering over 400 acres and housing nine central prisons.

Why Is Tihar Jail Being Relocated?

The primary reason behind the decision is the jail’s proximity to residential areas, raising security concerns. Recent incidents of violence and gang conflicts inside Tihar Jail have further highlighted safety risks.

In a recent attack, two inmates were assaulted due to revenge motives, raising serious questions about prison security. The move is also aimed at improving health and administrative conditions within the prison system.

Overcrowded, Understaffed

Tihar Jail has undergone multiple expansions since its establishment. In 1986, additional facilities were introduced, making it India’s largest prison. According to a Business Standard report published last year, the prison houses around 20,000 inmates against its sanctioned capacity of just 10,000. The growing inmate population has necessitated periodic expansions over the years.

The prison also faces an acute staff crunch. As per a 2024 Hindustan Times report, the overcrowded Tihar jail is being operated by barely one-third of the sanctioned staff strength. The report stated that the three prisons in Delhi — Tihar, Rohini, and Mandoli — are in urgent need of around 4,800 staffers for efficient running. 

Notable Inmates In Tihar

Tihar Jail has hosted some of the most notorious criminals, including Lawrence Bishnoi, Chhota Rajan and Charles Sobhraj. The prison has also hosted several political prisoners like Umar Khalid, Sharjeel Imam and Mukhtar Ansari. 

(With PTI inputs.)