Dibrugarh: The Superintendent of Dibrugarh Central Jail in Assam found himself on the wrong side of the law on March 8, facing arrest in connection with the discovery of electronic gadgets, notably a smartphone, in the possession of inmates associated with the separatist group ‘Waris Punjab De,’ according to Dibrugarh police.
The arrest, carried out in the early morning hours, was attributed to the superintendent’s alleged “laxity” in maintaining security within the prison, especially in the NSA cells. Currently held at Dibrugarh Sadar Police Station, the official’s apprehension is linked to the seizure of electronic devices from cells housing detainees under the National Security Act (NSA) last month.
The saga unfolded on February 16 when authorities uncovered objectionable items within the confines of Dibrugarh Central Jail. Among the detainees were 10 pro-Khalistani propagators, led by Amritpal Singh. Assam Police’s Director General, G P Singh, disclosed that extensive searches in the radicals’ cells resulted in the recovery of various objectionable items, including cell phones. An inquiry was promptly initiated to determine how these unauthorised items infiltrated the high-security NSA cells.
Following a detailed investigation into the security breach, the superintendent, Nripen Das, was arrested on the morning of March 8. Amritpal Singh, a prominent Khalistani radical, had been transferred to Dibrugarh Central Jail from Punjab on April 24, 2023. The facility also houses nine other pro-Khalistani propagators, all facing NSA charges since March 19. Despite authorised family visits, the mysterious entry of objectionable items into this secure facility raises significant concerns. A comprehensive probe, spearheaded by top-level police officials and jail authorities, aims to unveil the origins and supply sources of these sensitive items within the Assam jail. This incident underscores the critical need for a thorough investigation to ensure the security and integrity of high-profile detention facilities. Legal actions are underway, accompanied by preventive measures to forestall a recurrence of such security lapses. More details on the involvement of the arrested jail superintendent in the security breach of the NSA cells will be disclosed on police investigation after the arrest of the jail official.
