Advanced digital tracking introduced to monitor prisoner movement and prevent illegal prison activities
BENGALURU
In a major move to tighten prison security and curb illegal activities, authorities have implemented a mandatory biometric-based Prisoners Tracking Movement System at Parappana Agrahara Central Prison. The system has been introduced to monitor inmate movements closely and prevent inappropriate behaviour and unlawful coordination among prisoners.
According to prison officials, biometric verification has now become compulsory for inmates entering every barrack and key section within the prison premises. The digital monitoring system has been implemented at an estimated cost of around Rs 2.25 crore.
The prison already had artificial intelligence-based surveillance cameras monitoring prisoners as well as officers and staff. With the latest upgrade, authorities have now introduced complete digital tracking of prisoners’ phone calls, a token-based visitor management system and real-time monitoring of inmate movement inside the prison.
Officials said undertrial prisoners and convicted inmates, though housed separately, often gathered together at common points such as food distribution areas and medical facilities. This interaction allegedly enabled exchange of information and indirectly contributed to criminal activities both inside and outside the prison.
Authorities also found that prisoners visiting meeting rooms frequently moved to other barracks or hospital sections instead of returning directly to their designated cells. To address this, the prison department has proposed separate canteens and food facilities for convicts and undertrial prisoners. Plans are also underway to establish a separate Out Patient Department (OPD) for minor treatments so that only seriously ill inmates are taken to the main hospital section.
Biometric systems have now been installed across major prison facilities, including barracks, visitor rooms, hospital areas, canteens, kitchens, library sections, playgrounds, handicraft units and bakery facilities. Prisoners visiting meeting rooms must obtain digital tokens linked to biometric authentication.
Officials said prison staff update the inmate’s details, including name, prisoner number, time and movement records, into dedicated software systems. This allows authorities to maintain complete digital records of prisoner movements and interactions.