The Delhi government has ordered the immediate transfer of prison officials who have remained posted at the same location for more than three years, as part of a wider effort to curb corruption, alleged extortion and administrative irregularities in the capital’s jails.
The jail administration has been directed to identify such officials, prepare a list and begin the transfer process. The move follows a high-level review meeting on prison administration and is intended to reduce the influence and possible institutional links that can develop when officials remain in sensitive posts for extended periods.
Delhi Home Minister Ashish Sood said the government would follow a zero-tolerance policy towards corruption, extortion and negligence in the prison system. The government has also sought details of officials posted beyond the prescribed tenure in sensitive departments, including public relations, factory operations and procurement.
Information has additionally been requested on officers posted in jails housing first-time offenders, accused persons in economic offences and civil prisoners. In cases involving allegations of corruption or misconduct, the government has asked for complete posting records covering the past 10 years. The records are expected to help the administration examine the length and pattern of postings of officials facing such allegations.
The review has also focused on the quality and pricing of food and medicines supplied to inmates. Jail authorities have been instructed to examine the quality of these supplies and compare their prices with market rates. The stated objective is to prevent financial irregularities in the name of procurement and ensure that inmates receive the prescribed food and medical supplies.
The government is also considering the use of modern scanning technology to detect tobacco and narcotic substances in jails without damaging the articles being screened. The proposal forms part of a broader focus on preventing the smuggling of prohibited substances into prison facilities and strengthening internal security.
Officials have been asked to submit action-taken reports within a stipulated timeframe on pending complaints, security lapses and cases involving alleged staff misconduct. The requirement is intended to bring complaints and operational failures under a time-bound reporting system rather than leaving them without a recorded administrative response.
The government said the transfer of officials who have remained in the same post for years was necessary to improve transparency and accountability. It also stated that prison modernisation, inmate welfare and the time-bound resolution of complaints would remain priorities as the administration begins identifying officials covered by the order.
