Bengaluru: Senior IPS officer Alok Kumar (Alok Thakur) on Thursday formally assumed charge as the new Director General of Police, Prisons and Correctional Services, Karnataka, asserting that the state’s prison system will witness strict reforms, improved transparency, and stronger security protocols.
Addressing the media soon after taking over, Alok Kumar said the department will adopt a zero-tolerance policy toward any illegal activity inside jails — including the smuggling of mobile phones, drugs and other prohibited items.

“Our foremost priority is to reinforce security and ensure that the correctional mandate of this department is fully implemented,” he said, adding that a comprehensive review of internal processes and security lapses will be undertaken.
Kumar’s appointment comes at a significant juncture for the Karnataka Prisons Department, which is currently working toward modernising prison infrastructure, strengthening surveillance systems, and expanding rehabilitation and skill-development programmes for inmates.
With the new DGP signalling a tougher stance and improved accountability, senior officials believe the department is set for a major overhaul aimed at efficiency, discipline and correctional reform.
