Description

Black Warrant: Confessions of a Tihar Jailor is a gripping and chilling account of life inside Tihar Jail, India’s most notorious high-security prison. Written by journalist Sunetra Choudhury and former Tihar Jail officer Sunil Gupta, the book offers a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the grim realities of India’s criminal justice system. It exposes the brutality, corruption, and harsh conditions faced by prisoners, including some of the country’s most infamous criminals and high-profile inmates. Summary & Key Insights Sunil Gupta, who worked in Tihar Jail for over 30 years, shares shocking and untold stories of encounters with terrorists, gangsters, rapists, politicians, and white-collar criminals. The book takes readers deep into the execution chamber, revealing the terrifying final moments of death row convicts, their last words, and the emotions that haunt the jail officers. Some of the most notorious prisoners featured in the book include: Indira Gandhi’s assassins – Satwant Singh and Kehar Singh, hanged in 1989. Afzal Guru – The prime accused in the 2001 Indian Parliament attack, executed in 2013. Ajmal Kasab – The lone surviving terrorist from the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, executed in 2012. Charles Sobhraj – The infamous serial killer known as the "Bikini Killer" and "The Serpent." Politicians & VIP inmates – Including corrupt officials and high-profile criminals. The Black Warrant, a legal execution order, plays a pivotal role in the book, symbolizing the final judgment for those sentenced to death. The book describes the execution process, the role of jail officers, and the psychological impact of carrying out death sentences. Themes & Analysis The Dark Side of Indian Prisons – The book highlights the extreme physical and mental torture faced by inmates. Justice vs. Injustice – Some prisoners spend years waiting for execution, raising questions about India's legal system. Morality of the Death Penalty – The firsthand accounts of executions force readers to reflect on the ethics of capital punishment. Power & Corruption – The book exposes how money and political influence allow some prisoners to receive special treatment. Writing Style & Impact The book is written in a straightforward and journalistic style, making it highly engaging. It reads like a thriller, yet everything is real. The stories are disturbing, emotional, and eye-opening, providing a rare insider’s view of a world most people never see.