THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Ranchi, May 17: Leader of the Opposition and BJP leader Babulal Marandi has written a strongly worded letter to Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren alleging sexual exploitation of a female inmate at Birsa Munda Central Jail in Ranchi by the jail superintendent, resulting in pregnancy, and accusing senior prison officials of attempting to suppress the matter.
In his letter, Marandi alleged that the Superintendent of Birsa Munda Central Jail sexually exploited a woman inmate lodged in the prison and that the victim later became pregnant. He claimed the incident reflects a “complete collapse” of the state’s prison administration and law-and-order machinery.
Allegations of Cover-Up by Prison Officials
The BJP leader further alleged that instead of initiating strict legal action, senior officials in the prison department attempted to cover up the case. Marandi accused the Inspector General of Prisons of protecting the accused superintendent and allegedly helping in the destruction of evidence.
According to the letter, prison staff and potential witnesses are allegedly being pressured and silenced to prevent the matter from coming into public view. He also claimed that money and administrative influence were being used to suppress the case.
Claims of Evidence Tampering
Marandi alleged that the pregnant inmate was repeatedly moved outside the jail premises to hospitals and undisclosed locations under the pretext of medical treatment. He claimed this was being done to destroy biological and forensic evidence linked to the case.
The opposition leader also alleged that several prison staff members who were aware of the developments inside the jail were abruptly transferred overnight, raising suspicion of witness suppression and administrative interference.
Demand for Immediate Action
In the letter, Marandi demanded the immediate dismissal and arrest of the Superintendent of Prisons and strict action against the Inspector General of Prisons. He urged Chief Minister Hemant Soren to order a transparent and time-bound investigation into the allegations.
Marandi warned that failure to take swift action would raise serious questions about the accountability of the state government and its administrative machinery.