Chief Minister Vijay warns prison officials of strict action for negligence

Chief Minister Vijay has warned prison officials that strict action will be taken against those found negligent in their duties, following the escape of 17 prisoners from Theni District Prison on October 26.
According to a statement issued by the Tamil Nadu Government, the 17 prisoners escaped after allegedly attacking prison warders on security
duty.
Police acted swiftly and rearrested all 17 prisoners, who were subsequently lodged in
prison.
Following the incident, the Chief Minister ordered strict action over security lapses, inadequate monitoring and negligence in prison administration.
Deputy Jail Officer Nageswaran, who had been holding additional charge as Superintendent of Theni District Prison since August 6, 2024, was placed under suspension from October 30 until further orders under the Tamil Nadu Civil Services (Discipline and Appeal) Rules.
He was found to have failed to adequately monitor and supervise prisoners and prison staff. Madurai Central Prison Superintendent Krishnaraj has also been transferred as Superintendent of Salem Central Prison to strengthen supervision, accountability and security in the prison administration.
The Chief Minister directed prison officials to discharge their responsibilities with utmost care and vigilance and warned that strict action would be taken against officers found negligent in security and monitoring duties.