
New Delhi, November 24, 2025: A significant security breach at the Bengaluru Central Jail (Parappana Agrahara) has been confirmed following the viral circulation of a video clip. The footage, which was widely shared on social media, clearly shows at least three inmates illegally using mobile phones and other prohibited items inside the high-security premises. The shocking visuals have led to severe scrutiny of the prison administration.
The inmates who were clearly visible using the mobile devices in the viral video have been officially booked. Among the trio, a high-profile individual who is an undertrial in a terror case was identified as Juhad Hameed Shakeel Manna, allegedly an ISIS recruiter. The other two inmates were also identified as undertrials or convicts in serious cases, including an individual who is a convicted serial rapist and killer and another charged under the NDPS Act. The presence of these high-risk prisoners in the video has magnified the security concerns.
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Following the public uproar, a formal complaint was filed by prison authorities with the jurisdictional Parappana Agrahara police. The three inmates have been booked under relevant sections of the law for the illegal possession and use of mobile phones within the prison facility. A thorough investigation has been launched to ascertain exactly how the mobile devices were smuggled inside the high-security jail and who among the staff was involved in providing the contraband or preferential treatment.
The viral video was not the only one to emerge from the facility. Concurrent reports and other video clips have surfaced, allegedly showing other inmates enjoying lavish parties, consuming alcohol, and having access to televisions, further underscoring the severity of the security lapse. The entire controversy has led to allegations of widespread corruption and VVIP culture prevailing within the central prison. The government has been heavily criticized by opposition leaders for the apparent failure of prison management.
In response to the escalating scandal, high-ranking officials have publicly promised strict corrective measures. Instructions were given by the State Home Minister to the Additional Director-General of Police (Prisons) for a detailed report, and assurance was given that officials found guilty of complicity or negligence would face immediate suspension or termination. Furthermore, the installation of CCTV cameras and mobile phone jammers across all state prisons has been approved to prevent similar incidents from recurring.