Patna, Oct 15: The indefinite hunger strike by over 150 inmates of the Beur Adarsh Jail here was called off today following intervention by Jail Minister Basawan Bhagat. The strike, which was being led by Peoples War Bihar unit leader Arvind, was called off when the government agreed to the demands to return TV sets, Bhagat told reporters.
It was also agreed to convert TV sets brought in illegally into the prison as government property and would be installed at vantage points for general viewing, he said.
Bhagat said he offered fruit juice to several inmates who had gone on hunger strike since yesterday demanding improved amenities, return of TV sets and Rs 2.25 lakh cash seized during a recent raid by the district administration.
About the demand for return of the money seized from the prisoners, he said the government would take legal opinion in the matter as it involved a large sum.
Independent MLAs Suraj Bhan and Rajan Tiwari and expelled Samata Party legislator Sunil Pandey had extended support to the stir by the inmates, majority of whom owe allegiance to the banned naxalite outfit.
The hunger strike had been launched by 100 inmates yesterday and 50 others joined them today.
Bureau Report