DefenceThursday, 29 October 2026·Hindu Tamil Thisai
Tamil Nadu prison security: DGP allows armed watchtower duty to prevent inmate escapes
Tamil Nadu prisons have been directed to keep armed personnel in watchtowers after recent escape incidents from Puzhal and Theni jails.
Key highlights
Direct fact
In October 2026, Tamil Nadu Prison DGP Sandeep Rai Rathore ordered that armed police may use firearms in watchtowers if inmates attempt to escape from central or district prisons in the State.
Key specifics
- The order came after escape incidents from Puzhal prison in Chennai and Theni prison.
- Police posted in watchtowers across Tamil Nadu prisons have been permitted to carry firearms again.
- The department said armed watchtower duty had existed until about 6 years earlier.
- Officials were told to submit immediate reports on security arrangements in all prisons.
- Intelligence units were asked to monitor visitor meetings and possible criminal conspiracies.
Exam lens
TNPSC prison administration question, Sandeep Rai Rathore, Puzhal and Theni prisons, armed watchtowers, security review — a likely governance and internal security one-liner.