Mumbai: The alleged murder of Byculla women’s prison inmate Manju Shetye (45), who died on June 23 after getting thrashed by six prison officials, kicked off a heated debate in the state’s council on Friday. Congress MLC Husnabanu Khalife claimed during the discussion that the deceased had allegedly maintained a daily diary that is now missing. Ms Khalife said, “Manjula used to write in her diary everyday. She might have written about her quarrels with the jail administration. But that diary has gone missing.” The state informed that Manjula was beaten to death and they will not spare anyone in this. The opposition had moved a ‘calling-attention’ motion over Shetye’s death in the Council.
Opposition leader Dhananjay Munde called this decision barbaric and an example of the current condition of jail administration. He demanded suspension of DIG prison Swati Sathe. “Ms Sathe was collecting money to save culprits in this. This behavior is unjust. Government must take action,” said Mr Munde.
Minister of State for Home Ranjit Patil didn’t take any action on Ms Sathe. He informed that Manjula was beaten by 6 lady police in jail and so she died. “MCOCA has been applied in this case. Jail superintendent Indurkar will be sent on leave till the investigation is completed,” told Mr Patil.
Shiv Sena MLC Neelam Gorhe also levelled serious allegations. “It is looking like someone within the government is supporting senior police officers in this case. Proofs in this case have been destroyed. Government must shown courage and act on them,” Ms Gorhe said.
Ms Gorhe also raised an issue of the letter written by the lady jail superintendent about sexual harassment by a senior jail administration officer. “That alleged letter claims that this jail administration officer has misbehaved with 60 to 70 ladies from different jails. This must be probed thoroughly,” demanded Ms Gorhe. Minister Mr Patil assured of inquiry into the matter and also read out measures taken by the government. “Lady police officer and lady doctor will be appointed in each jail. Also jail manual will be improved and timings will be followed strictly,” assured Mr Patil.
