Telangana Prisons dept. tightens the bars with security, tech and staff audit

In a move to improve prison security and operational standards, the Telangana Prisons Department has launched a State-wide security and technology audit across all correctional facilities.

The comprehensive audit covers central prisons, district jails, special prisons for women, special sub jails and sub jails across Telangana. The key areas include main gate security with special attention to the functionality of scanners, search procedures, visitor identity verification, and entry record maintenance. Surveillance systems are also under review, with auditors checking the extent of CCTV coverage, recording protocols and communication equipment usage.

Structural security measures such as the condition of perimeter walls, status of live wire systems and maintenance of watchtowers are being thoroughly inspected. Security equipment, including arms and ammunition, is being checked for proper maintenance and functionality.

Staff supervision is another major focus, with the auditing teams verifying duty rosters, assessing staff strength, and ensuring effective supervisory monitoring. Inmate management practices are under review to ensure proper segregation of high-risk, vulnerable, and psychiatric inmates. Additionally, routine and surprise searches are being monitored for their effectiveness in controlling contraband, with emphasis on the use of scanners and alarm procedures.

Health and hygiene standards within prisons are being evaluated through regular inmate health screenings, hygiene inspections, and checks on the availability of safe drinking water. Record management, including updates to the e-Prisons system, warrants, admission and release records, is also under scrutiny.

The audit extends to assessing welfare and rehabilitation initiatives, including literacy programmes, vocational training, grievance redressal mechanisms and library services. Further, incident documentation practices relating to escapes, deaths, and disaster management events are being reviewed to ensure comprehensive and timely reporting.

Infrastructure safety and emergency preparedness are integral components of the audit, with a view to ensuring that all facilities are equipped to handle emergencies effectively.

Senior prison officials have been tasked with the initiative, with DIGs auditing central prisons, superintendents overseeing district jails, and deputy superintendents assessing special sub jails and sub jails. Each team is visiting facilities to scrutinise critical aspects of prison management and security.