Delhi High Court Orders Action on Allegations of Jail Misconduct

The Delhi High Court has mandated the Director General of Prisons to address allegations made by Zoya Khan regarding harassment by jail officials. Zoya, who is currently incarcerated in Tihar Jail, claims that she faced intimidation and unlawful demands during Ramadan. Her legal representatives have highlighted multiple incidents of misconduct, prompting the court to ensure a timely resolution. Zoya is also involved in serious criminal cases, including the Nadir Shah murder case. This situation raises significant concerns about prison conditions and the treatment of inmates.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 23, 2026, 16:04 IST

Court Directs Jail Chief to Address Allegations

On Monday, the Delhi High Court instructed the Director General of Prisons to resolve the complaint filed by Zoya Khan, the wife of Hashim Baba, within two weeks. Zoya Khan had approached the court alleging harassment by prison officials while she is incarcerated in Central Jail No. 6 at Tihar. Justice Manoj Jain, while addressing the petition, mandated the DG to make a decision regarding the complaint and inform the petitioner accordingly. He also mentioned that if Zoya is dissatisfied with the outcome, she has the right to appeal again in the High Court.

Legal Representation and Allegations of Misconduct

Zoya Khan was represented by lawyers Joginder Tuli and Joshini Tuli. Reports indicate that on March 10, her legal team sent an email to the jail's DG and the superintendent of Central Jail No. 6 regarding the alleged illegal actions taken against her, but no action has been reported to date.

According to the petition, prison officials reportedly began to harass Zoya and demand money during the month of Ramadan.

Details of the Allegations

The petition highlights an incident of harassment that occurred on March 2 around 6:00 PM outside the Deputy Superintendent's office, where officials allegedly violated Rule 1142 of the Delhi Jail Rules, 2018, by not allowing her to observe her fast. Another incident of harassment was reported on March 13 at approximately 9:00 AM in Ward No. 9.

Her lawyer, Advocate Anand Devi, visited the jail on March 9 for a legal meeting with Zoya, during which she discussed the illegal violations of jail regulations, the harassment by officials, and the unlawful demands for money and gold jewelry to facilitate family visits. Zoya is seeking an independent investigation against four officials from Tihar Jail, including two assistant superintendents and two matrons. She is accused in the Nadir Shah murder case and two other cases, including one under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act.