Special Operation Group of the Rajasthan Police will investigate the firing incident in Bikaner jail in which three inmates were killed and submit its report in the next session of the Assembly, the State Government said on Friday.
Making the announcement in the House, Rural Development Minister Gulab Chand Kataria said it is a very serious and sensitive case and no one involved will be spared.
Giving a suo moto statement on the issue during the Zero Hour, which was opposed by opposition Congress members who wanted to speak on the matter before the government’s statement, the Minister said only a detail investigation will reveal facts about the incident.
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He informed the House that Jail Superintendent Surendra Singh and two jail guards Shubhkaran and Ranvir who were on duty outside the wards where the rival gang members were lodged have been suspended.
The incident took place at 5.50 pm at a place between Ward Number 5 and 6 where the prisoners were not supposed to be present.
Balbir Banuda was shot dead by Jaiprakash. Banuda’s aide Anandpal Singh and another jail inmate Nemichand also received bullet injuries.
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Jaiprakash and his aide Rampal were later killed in stone pelting by other inmates, he said.
“When Assistant Jailors reached the spot, they found them lying dead. Such a big incident occured, but it is surprising that the jail staff was not able to reach the crime scene before the murders.
“It raises doubts and detailed investigation is needed to unveil the truth and to identify all those involved,” Kataria said.
He said it was not confirmed yet how the weapon used by Jaiprakash to kill Banuda reached the jail, but primary probe indicated involvement of a jail Hawaldar and the CCTV footage was being examined.
Kataria said the government takes the responsibility of the incident and assured the House that strict and exemplary action will be taken against those found guilty so that no such incident occurs in the future.