A startling case of prolonged parole violation has come to light in Odisha, where nine prisoners released on parole from Choudwar Jail in Cuttack district failed to return after the completion of their sanctioned leave and have remained absconding for nearly 25 years.

According to jail authorities, the inmates were released on parole to visit their native places but never reported back to the prison to serve the remainder of their sentences. The matter recently came to light after jail officials lodged a formal complaint at the Choudwar police station on November 27.

Officials stated that at the time of the prisoners’ release, intimation had been sent to the respective local police stations in their home districts, placing responsibility on local authorities to track their movement and ensure their return. However, no effective follow-up appears to have been carried out over the years.

The prolonged absence of the prisoners has also raised concerns about their present status, with authorities unsure whether all of them are still alive. Jail officials have now initiated fresh efforts to trace the absconding inmates.

Confirming the development, Jail DIG Anusaya Jena said that formal FIRs have been registered and renewed efforts are underway to locate the parole jumpers. “The prisoners failed to return after availing parole. Missing reports have now been re-registered, and police have been directed to trace them,” she said.

The case has triggered questions over long-standing lapses in monitoring mechanisms and coordination between prison authorities and local law enforcement agencies.