Cuttack: Choudwar Jail authorities in Cuttack district have compensated an inmate Rs 1.9 lakh after her gold jewellery went missing while she was in judicial custody.
Itishree Mohanty, an inmate from Sukleswar village under Mahanga police limits, alleged that her gold ornaments were taken by jail officials during her admission but were not returned later. She initially raised the issue with the jail authorities and formally informed Superintendent Sujit Raul, claiming she was allegedly encouraged to lodge a complaint against former jailer Santoshini Das and was offered money.
Following her complaint, Mohanty filed a police report naming Superintendent Raul. Jail DIG Anusuya Jena later summoned her to the jail and recorded her statement, assuring her that the missing ornaments would be returned within seven days.
The matter became controversial when jail authorities reportedly claimed the seized items were gold-plated, even though CCTV footage showed gold jewellery being taken from Mohanty during her admission. The discrepancy raised concerns over transparency and jail procedures.
After paying Rs 1.9 lakh as compensation based on the current market value of the gold, Superintendent Raul resolved the matter. Mohanty subsequently withdrew her police complaint.
