THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Ranchi, May 22: The Jharkhand High Court on Friday took serious note of allegations of sexual exploitation of a female inmate inside Birsa Munda Central Jail, Hotwar, Ranchi, and initiated a suo motu Public Interest Litigation (PIL) into the matter.
A division bench comprising Justice Rongon Mukhopadhyay and Justice Pradeep Kumar Srivastava directed the Director General of Police (DGP), Jharkhand, to file a detailed affidavit within two weeks regarding the action taken and the steps initiated to verify the allegations. The matter will next be heard on June 8, 2026.
The court observed that the allegations were of an extremely serious nature, particularly because the accused is the very official entrusted with the safety and welfare of inmates.
Allegations of Sexual Exploitation and Pregnancy
According to the court order, the PIL was registered based on newspaper reports and a letter sent by Leader of Opposition Babulal Marandi to the Chief Justice of Jharkhand High Court.
The allegations relate to the purported sexual exploitation of a female inmate by the Jail Superintendent of Birsa Munda Central Jail, Hotwar. It has been alleged that the inmate became pregnant and that attempts were subsequently made to terminate the fetus.
The court also took note of reports claiming that efforts were made by the accused and certain senior officials to suppress the incident.
High Court Questions Jail Administration and State Response
While hearing the matter, the bench remarked that allegations of such magnitude require a “proper and detailed response” from the State government. The court sought clarity on what measures had been taken to ascertain the truthfulness of the allegations and whether any departmental or criminal proceedings had been initiated.
The High Court directed Government Advocate Mrinal Kanti Roy to ensure that an affidavit sworn by the DGP is filed before the next date of hearing.
Babulal Marandi Wrote Two Letters to CM Hemant Soren
Leader of Opposition and BJP leader Babulal Marandi had earlier raised the issue through two separate letters addressed to Chief Minister Hemant Soren. In his letters, Marandi reportedly demanded a high-level investigation into the allegations and questioned the functioning of the jail administration.
He also expressed concern over reports of attempts to conceal the incident and sought strict action against all officials found involved. Marandi urged the government to ensure accountability and transparency in the investigation.
The issue has triggered sharp political reactions in Jharkhand, with opposition parties accusing the state government of administrative failure and demanding immediate action against the accused officials.
Next Hearing on June 8
The High Court has fixed June 8, 2026, as the next date of hearing in the matter. The court is expected to examine the affidavit submitted by the DGP and review the progress of the investigation.