Karwar: A riot broke out at the district jail in Karwar on Thursday, August 29th, after prisoners demanded the supply of tobacco. The incident resulted in injuries to two inmates.
Muzammil and Farhan Chabbi, who were housed in the first barrack, sustained injuries during the riot and were admitted to the district hospital. While being transported, they accused the jailer of assault.
The riot began with a demand for the repair of the barrack’s TV. When the request was not met, prisoners escalated their demands to include tobacco. In the ensuing chaos, Muzammil struck his head with a stone and threw another stone at the wall, which ricocheted and hit Farhan on the forehead.
The inmates have alleged that they were assaulted by prison staff. However, CCTV footage suggests that the injuries were self-inflicted. Additional District Superintendent of Police C.T. Jayakumar has announced that a case will be registered against the injured inmates at the city police station.
The incident follows increased security measures at the Karwar jail after footage leaked showing actor Darshan holding a tea party with prisoners. These measures have restricted the entry of outside food and tobacco products, which may have contributed to the unrest among inmates.