Extortion Allegations Rock Mauganj Sub-Jail; Guard Suspended After Video Evidence Surfaces

The accused guard, Prakash Singh Baghel, was suspended by Jail Superintendent S.K. Upadhyay following a preliminary probe that found the claims to be prima facie credible. During the suspension period, Baghel has been attached to Anuppur District Jail pending further investigation.

The complaint was filed by Ambarish Dwivedi, a resident of Rampur Chitaipurwa village, who was lodged in Mauganj Sub-Jail on December 16, 2025, in connection with a legal case. After his release, Dwivedi alleged that he was assaulted for nearly two hours by the guard and pressured to arrange money from his family in exchange for safety and basic facilities.

According to his written complaint submitted to the District Collector, the guard allegedly obtained mobile numbers of family members and demanded payments under threat of continued harassment. Dwivedi claimed that nearly ₹40,000 was extracted through a mix of online transfers and cash payments. He also alleged that ₹1,000 to ₹4,000 was charged for every family visit inside the jail.

Screenshots of digital transactions and a video clip allegedly showing a relative handing over cash to the guard at a tea stall outside the jail have been submitted as evidence. Dwivedi stated that the transactions were often conducted discreetly outside the premises to avoid detection.

He further alleged that intoxicants were supplied to inmates in exchange for money and that prisoners were warned to remain silent ahead of official inspections. Poor food quality and intimidation of inmates were also mentioned in the complaint.

Superintendent Upadhyay acknowledged that similar allegations had surfaced against the same guard in the past. “A preliminary inquiry indicated irregularities. Departmental action has been initiated, and a detailed investigation is underway,” he said.

Officials have not ruled out the involvement of other staff members and said statements from inmates and jail personnel are being recorded. Authorities are also examining digital payment trails as part of the probe.

The incident has raised serious concerns over oversight and accountability within correctional facilities. District authorities have assured strict action if the allegations are substantiated.