People are sent behind bars for having committed crimes or for their vices, but when these are carried out within the jails, then there is no hope of reforming the criminals. Colvale central jail is a blot on the prison system and, as a Correctional Home, is failing in its role by allowing prisoners to have the run of its premises. Everything is available for a price: fine dining, liquor, televisions, drugs, mobiles, tobacco and consumer comforts (TGE, Aug 23, 25). Discreet enquiries may reveal visits by ‘friends with benefits.’ Allegedly, crimes are carried out from the jail’s precincts, as witnesses will vouch that the criminals did not go out. Nothing deters them, neither some honest cops, spies nor the CCTV cameras.
Importantly, 24×7 police protection is assured to the prisoners from enemies and gangs who are waiting outside to avenge past fracas and animosities. Colvale seems to be a ‘go-to place’ for seasoned criminals and is giving Tihar and Yervada jails a run for their money. The usual investigations, reports and rolling of heads would happen, and later the parties will continue. Nefarious activities cannot be carried out in jails without a nexus between corrupt cops, criminals, outside support, godfathers/godmothers and some politicians who may be hand-in-glove with the system. It will be a tough task to break the bond because of the blessings bestowed by vested interests.
Sridhar D Iyer, Caranzalem
