Kannur: Govindachamy, convicted for the 2011 rape and murder of a 23-year-old woman, was transferred to Viyyur Central Jail on Saturday morning under heavy security. The transfer followed his dramatic escape from Kannur Central Jail and subsequent recapture on Friday.

The incident occurred in the early hours of Friday when Govindachamy managed to escape from the high-security Kannur Central Jail. He was later found hiding in a well at Thalap, roughly two kilometres from the prison. His recapture led to widespread criticism of the prison administration.

What are the new jail conditions?

Govindachamy is currently lodged in solitary confinement at Viyyur Central Jail. The facility holds 125 inmates, all considered to be dangerous criminals. His cell is monitored by CCTV and includes a fan and a cot. At 4.2 metres in height, the cell is designed to restrict any visual or verbal contact with other prisoners. Meals are provided inside the cell, and no movement outside is allowed for dining.

The jail compound is encircled by a 6-metre high boundary wall, extending to a total of 700 metres. The facility is considered one of the most secure in the State.

What action has been taken?

Following the escape, four officials from Kannur Central Jail have been suspended. An internal investigation is underway to examine whether the jail’s electric fencing and CCTV surveillance systems were operational at the time of the escape.

The episode has triggered serious concerns regarding the effectiveness of security protocols and regular checks in one of Kerala’s most fortified prisons.