Bars and Beyond: Diving Deep into the Complexities of Prison Life

 

Understanding the Complexities of Prison Life

Behind the Walls of Tihar Jail

In this article, we delve into the fascinating yet complex world of prison life, focusing specifically on India's notorious Tihar Jail. We engage in an exclusive discussion with Deepak Sharma, the Jail Superintendent of Tihar Jail, to unravel the realities faced by both prisoners and prison officials.

The Unique Challenges of Police Work in a Prison Setting

Q: How does the role of police officers differ within a prison compared to outside?

A: Prison policing is a distinct challenge. Unlike in the outside world, a single officer is responsible for managing the behavior of a large number of inmates, ranging from 80 to 100 individuals. This requires a high level of discipline and control.

Inmates' Daily Routine and Behavioral Management

Q: What is the daily routine for inmates within Tihar Jail?

A: Inmates follow a structured routine that includes waking up at 6 am, prayers, yoga sessions, and educational activities for younger inmates. They are later released into open spaces until midday, before being locked back in their cells at 12 pm.

Q: How do you approach behavioral management within the prison?

A: We focus on maintaining discipline and adhering to prison rules. If an inmate violates these rules, their sentence may be reduced or they may face additional penalties.

Prisoners' Influence and Control

Q: How do inmates manage to maintain control and influence within the prison system?

A: Some inmates operate networks and communicate with the outside world through visits with their legal representatives and family members. However, it's important to note that inmates do not have access to phones within the prison.

The Role of Emotional Intelligence in Dealing with Inmates

Q: How do you navigate the emotional toll of working with inmates?

A: It's crucial to develop emotional intelligence and empathy towards inmates. While it's necessary to maintain discipline, it's also important to understand उनकी परिस्थितियों and provide them with opportunities for rehabilitation.

Witnessing the Execution of Nirbhaya Case Convicts

Q: You were involved in the execution of the Nirbhaya case convicts, an emotionally charged event. Can you share your experience?

A: The execution was a highly sensitive and emotional process. The convicts were unaware of their impending execution until the very last moment. As a supervisor, it was my responsibility to ensure a smooth and humane process.

VIP Treatment and Contraband within Prison

Q: Are there instances of VIP treatment within the prison system?

A: The prison system is designed to treat all inmates equally, regardless of their background or social status. However, there are certain instances where inmates may receive special privileges, such as access to TVs or expensive clothing. These privileges are typically granted based on their behavior and as a reward for maintaining good conduct.

Q: How do contraband items, such as drugs or weapons, enter the prison?

A: Contraband often enters the prison through visitors or staff members who may unknowingly or intentionally bring them in. We conduct regular searches and inspections to prevent the entry of such items.

Addressing Overcrowding in Indian Prisons

Q: Overcrowding is a major issue in Indian prisons. What measures are being taken to address this problem?

A: The government is working towards reducing overcrowding through various initiatives, including speedy trials and the implementation of the 482 benefits scheme, which allows inmates to be released on bail after serving a certain portion of their sentence.

Understanding the Mentality of Dangerous Criminals

Q: How do you approach dealing with particularly dangerous criminals, such as Tillu Tajpuria and Jitendra Gogi?

A: These individuals are involved in high-stakes gang wars, with numerous murders and retaliatory actions. The police are constantly monitoring their activities and taking appropriate action to prevent any untoward incidents.

Common Traits Among Criminals

Q: Based on your interactions with numerous criminals, have you noticed any common patterns or traits?

A: Psychologically, many criminals exhibit signs of mental illness and may have a distorted sense of reality. Their motivations can vary widely, and each individual has their own unique circumstances and reasons for engaging in criminal activities