Govindachamy jailbreak: Inquiry incomplete, suspended staff back in service

Kannur: Months after the sensational escape of Govindachamy from Kannur Central Jail, the commission appointed to investigate the jailbreak has not submitted its report. Meanwhile, four jail officials who were suspended following the incident have now been reinstated and transferred.

Probe Yet To Be Completed

The jailbreak occurred in the early hours of July 24 from Kannur Central Jail. The investigation, initially handled by the Town Police, was later transferred to the Crime Branch.

A special team led by SP P. Balakrishnan Nair recorded Govindachamy’s statement at the high-security Viyyur Central Jail. The Crime Branch is currently probing the alleged conspiracy behind the escape and has indicated that the investigation is in its final stages. A charge sheet is expected to be filed within a month.

Govindachamy reportedly told investigators that denial of parole and dissatisfaction over food were reasons behind his escape.

Officials Suspended, Now Reinstated

Following the jailbreak, Jail DGP Balram Kumar Upadhyay stated that the escape appeared to be pre-planned and pointed to lapses on the part of jail officials.

Deputy Prison Officer Rajeesh, Assistant Prison Officers Sanjay and Akhil, and Night Officer Rejo were subsequently suspended.

With the suspension period now over, the four officials have been reinstated and transferred to Kozhikode District Jail and Thavanur Central Jail.

Commission Report Still Pending

The state government had initially granted three months for the commission to submit its report. However, the panel sought six months, citing the need to inspect all central jails before finalising findings.

Although the extension was granted, more than six and a half months have passed without the submission of the report.

The commission comprises retired Justice C.N. Ramachandran Nair and former DGP Jacob Punnoose. Departmental inquiry proceedings appear to have slowed with no fresh inspections or additional action reported in the jail system so far.