Team Goemkarponn
COLVALE: In light of repeated incidents involving the smuggling of contraband into the Colvale Central Jail, the prison authorities have implemented a complete ban on outside food deliveries to inmates. The decision, aimed at tightening security, comes into force from April 1.
The new regulation was announced by Jail Superintendent Shankar Gaonkar, who cited growing concerns over the inflow of prohibited items despite regular security measures. In recent months, multiple surprise inspections have led to the discovery of banned goods including mobile phones, chargers, tobacco, and narcotics inside the jail premises.
Investigations suggested that some of these items were being concealed within food parcels brought in by visitors and relatives of inmates during visitation hours.
“Inmates of the Central Jail at Colvale and their visitors are informed that no prisoner shall be allowed to receive food from visitors from April 1,” Gaonkar said in an official notice.
To ensure inmates continue to have access to additional food, the jail canteen has been fully operationalised. It is now equipped to provide a range of food and essential items, beyond the standard prison diet.
“Prisoners can purchase additional food other than the regular diet from the canteen of Central Jail, which has been made functional,” Gaonkar added.
Families and visitors have been advised to deposit money into inmates’ individual accounts, maintained by the prison administration. These funds will allow inmates to make purchases within the jail premises, helping improve transparency and regulate the inflow of goods.
Authorities have called for public cooperation, stressing that the move is necessary to maintain discipline, enhance security, and support the rehabilitation process within the correctional facility.
