A US national held in Tihar Jail on terror charges has approached a Delhi court seeking permission to cook his own meals. The court will hear the plea on July 21 after the inmate claimed health issues due to the standard prison diet. The jail administration operates a large-scale, standardized food program for over 14,000 inmates.
A 46-year-old American national currently detained in Delhi’s Tihar Jail has moved a local court requesting permission to prepare his own meals within the prison premises. The inmate, who is in custody under terror-related charges filed by the National Investigation Agency, claims that the standard food provided by the jail is not suitable for his health requirements. In his application, he asserts that he has experienced significant weight loss and health concerns since May, attributing these issues to the prison's regular menu.
Inmate Request and Court Timeline
The inmate’s legal application requests judicial authorization to use an induction cooker and specific food supplies inside his cell. The list of requested items includes pasta, chicken, red meat, lentils, olive oil, and milk products. According to the court schedule, this request is slated for a formal hearing on July 21. While the inmate’s family has reportedly expressed willingness to cover the expenses for these supplies, the prison administration is expected to provide its official response to the court regarding the feasibility and security implications of such an arrangement.
Tihar Jail’s Standard Food Operations
Tihar Jail currently manages food services for a population exceeding 14,000 inmates across its various complexes. The facility follows a strict, dietician-approved menu designed to meet specific nutritional guidelines for carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. The standard daily diet typically includes items like bread, tea, dal, rotis, and vegetable dishes. For specialized needs, the administration maintains protocols for inmates with documented medical conditions, pregnant women, and nursing mothers.
Beyond the base ration, the prison operates a structured system to supplement inmate needs. This includes an in-house manufacturing unit that produces various food products like spices, bakery items, and oils. Additionally, inmates can access a canteen facility using smart cards to purchase authorized packaged goods, such as biscuits and coconut water. With an annual food budget surpassing Rs 600 crore, the jail’s operational framework is built on a large-scale, standardized model. The court's decision on July 21 will center on whether individual cooking privileges can be granted within this established security and administrative system.