The Delhi Government has initiated disciplinary proceedings against nine officials of Tihar Jail following allegations of an extortion racket being operated within the jail premises involving both officials and inmates. The development was informed to the Delhi High Court on Wednesday, August 13.

A division bench comprising Chief Justice D.K. Upadhyaya and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela had earlier, on Monday, directed the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to register an FIR into the alleged racket.

During today’s proceedings, the counsel for the Delhi government confirmed that the nine officials have been suspended and disciplinary actions under Central Civil Services (CCS) rules have been initiated. They have also been transferred from Jail 1 as a precautionary measure.

“Within two months, we will file a report regarding the ongoing disciplinary proceedings,” the counsel informed the court.

The bench emphasized adherence to proper legal procedures while taking disciplinary measures, stating orally:

“Please ensure that disciplinary rules are strictly followed as per law.”

The court also formally noted in its order:

“…steps have been taken including disciplinary action against jail officials who have been placed under suspension and disciplinary proceedings under CCS rules.”

The High Court has granted eight weeks’ time to both the Delhi government and the CBI to file a detailed status report on the matter. The next hearing has been scheduled for October 28.

The case arises from a plea highlighting illegalities, misconduct, and administrative lapses within Tihar Jail, implicating not just jail authorities but also inmates. On May 2, the Court had directed the Principal Secretary (Home), Delhi Government to conduct a fact-finding enquiry to identify officials responsible for administrative shortcomings.

The plea also alleged that certain facilities inside the jail were being procured through collusion between inmates and jail authorities, and money was being extorted in the process. The CBI had been tasked with a preliminary enquiry to investigate these allegations further.

The matter is formally listed as: Mohit Kumar Goyal v. State of NCT of Delhi & Ors.

This development highlights the High Court’s focus on transparency and accountability within correctional institutions and its insistence on strict enforcement of disciplinary rules for public officials.