Mandya: Assistant superintendent of Mandya district prison Shantamma M has been shifted to Ballari Central Prison on charges of dereliction of duty allegedly for giving special treatment to an undertrial prisoner undergoing treatment at Mandya Institute of Medical Sciences (MIMS) Hospital.A department inquiry has been initiated against the official, who was holding additional charge as in charge superintendent.The action follows a surprise inspection conducted by district judge after receiving a complaint alleging that the undertrial prisoner was being provided undue privileges at the hospital.During the inspection, the prisoner was reportedly found in a hospital room with a young woman that sparked widespread media reports and raising questions over the security and supervision arrangements made for prisoners receiving medical treatment outside the jail.Taking note of the allegations and the circumstances brought to light during the inspection, prisons and correctional services department initiated an inquiry. The department has reportedly found prima facie lapses in the discharge of supervisory responsibilities by the official. Pending the outcome of the detailed inquiry, authorities decided that it would not be appropriate for Shantamma to continue as the in charge superintendent of Mandya District Prison and hence shifted Shantamma.Director general of police (prisons and correctional services) Alok Kumar issued the order shifting the official from the prison with immediate effect. Shantamma has been directed to hand over charge to jailor Fakirappa Baraker and report at Ballari Central Prison until further orders. Meanwhile, Mohan Kumar KN, assistant superintendent of Mysuru Central Prison, has been directed to take additional charge of Mandya District Prison and discharge the responsibilities of superintendent.Speaking to TOI, DGP prisons Alok Kumar confirmed that the department has shunted the incumbent officer to Ballari Central Prison and said an inquiry is under way.
