Panic struck the Raipur court complex in Chhattisgarh’s capital when two undertrial prisoners fled from police custody during a hearing. The escape revealed a security lapse in the state’s judicial system. The incident took place at the Raipur District Court premises this morning as the accused, facing charges of attempted murder, were being brought from Raipur Central Jail.
The escaped prisoners, Rajesh Markandey and Tularam Markandey, were in judicial custody for serious charges. They managed to escape while under the supervision of a court clerk during their hearing. Police are now conducting searches at potential hideouts to locate them.
The duo exploited a momentary lapse in security, breaking free within the court compound and fleeing amid the chaos. Eyewitnesses described scenes of confusion as court staff and security personnel reacted to the situation. The escapees, reportedly handcuffed, somehow overpowered the constables accompanying them.
Senior police officials have initiated a large-scale search operation, deploying teams from various police stations and special squads across the city and surrounding areas. Checkpoints have been set up at key locations like highways, bus stands, and railway stations, with raids ongoing at suspected hideouts. Alerts have been issued to neighboring districts and states.
This incident adds to the existing security concerns in Chhattisgarh’s judicial system. Previous incidents, including a drug convict’s escape in August 2025, have highlighted issues such as overcrowding, understaffing, and inadequate surveillance in jails and courts across the state. An FIR for escape from lawful custody has been filed at Civil Lines police station, and efforts to capture the fugitives are underway.
