Chief Jail Superintendent R. Anitha of Kalaburagi District Prison reported receiving a threat through an audio message claiming that her car would be blown up. The threat was allegedly sent by an unknown individual via a police inspector. The audio message has raised safety concerns, though Anitha stated she has not personally received any such message and therefore has not lodged a formal complaint.
Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Anitha said, as per IANS, "I personally did not receive any such message so far, so I would not be lodging any police complaint."
Following the threat, Anitha’s official vehicle has been placed under continuous CCTV monitoring. Police have initiated an investigation, focusing on identifying the origin of the audio message. Officials suspect the threat could be linked to her recent crackdown on illegal practices and preferential treatment in the prison.
The threat comes in the wake of strict reforms implemented by Anitha since assuming charge as Chief Superintendent one and a half months ago. Her tenure has been marked by a crackdown on illegal activities within Kalaburagi Central Prison, following viral photographs and videos showing inmates receiving preferential treatment.
Subsequent raids led to the seizure of cell phones, gutka, cigarette packets, and beedis from prisoners, as per PTI. These measures reportedly angered certain inmates, as Anitha also ended special privileges extended to influential prisoners.
Senior prison officials, including the ADGP Prisons, have supported Anitha's initiatives, emphasising the need for transparency and discipline within the prison system.
It may be noted that Kannada actor Darshan Thoogudeepa sparked controversy over VIP treatment in Karnataka jail. He was seen on a video call from prison and this follows accusations of when a viral photo showed him enjoying beverages and cigarettes inside Bengaluru's Parappana Agrahara Central Prison.
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