Central Prison in Ballari, one of Karnataka’s oldest jails, was established during the British era in 1884, following the first war of Indian Independence. This historic prison has a legacy of handling notorious criminals and has been a focus of media attention recently due to Kannada actor Darshan Thoogudeepa’s transfer to this facility amid controversy.
Key Facts:
- Historical Significance: Built on 16 acres of land, the Ballari Central Prison was originally part of three jails set up in the area, with the other two being an open-air jail in Allipur for political prisoners and a TB Sanatorium for sick prisoners. Over time, Allipur and the TB Sanatorium were closed.
- Notorious Reputation: The prison gained infamy for irregularities such as drug smuggling, gambling, and the lack of modern facilities. It housed notorious criminals like ‘Deadly’ Soma, and riot suspects from DJ Halli and KG Halli.
- Modern Measures: Despite its notorious past, the prison has taken measures to curb illegal activities. It features high-security measures including an 18-foot tall compound wall, 16 special cells in a high-security wing, and 85 CCTV cameras. Prison staff are equipped with body-worn cameras to enhance security.
- Current Situation: With a capacity of over 415 prisoners, the prison currently houses around 385 inmates, including high-profile criminals and rowdies from various districts. The extreme temperatures in Ballari, which can reach up to 45°C in summer, add to the challenging conditions within the prison.
The Central Prison in Ballari remains a symbol of both historical significance and ongoing challenges in the Indian penal system.
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