HC Deb 02 May 1922 vol 153 cc1136-7
7. Colonel WEDGWOOD

asked the Under-Secretary of State for India to what the outbreak in the Calcutta gaol was due; did the trouble begin among the politicals; were they being treated as politicals; and how many politicals were killed and wounded?

Earl WINTERTON

I have not received any message ascribing any definite cause to the outbreak. But there are no political prisoners in the gaol.

10. Captain Viscount CURZON

asked the Under-Secretary of State for India whether he can give any details as to the reported rising in an Indian prison near Calcutta; and whether he can state how the prisoners in the prison secured arms and ammunition?

Earl WINTERTON

As the answer is rather lengthy, I propose, should the Noble Lord see no objection, to circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Viscount CURZON

Does the answer cover the last point raised in the question?

Earl WINTERTON

Yes, the telegraphed reports do not seem to suggest that the prisoners were in possession of arms and ammunition. We expect fuller details by the next mail.

Following is the answer:

The reports received are to the effect that a serious mutiny broke out in the Presidency Jail, Calcutta, at 11 a.m. on the morning of Wednesday the 26th. Prisoners attempted to break through the gate of the jail and this necessitated the use of firearms by warders under the orders of the superintendent of the jail. Armed police and troops were sent, but the civil authorities resumed charge of the jail at 2 o'clock on the same day and all troops were withdrawn. Five prisoners are reported to have been killed and 35 wounded; these casualties apparently occurred before the additional police and troops arrived which were sent to render assistance. A few warders and jailers were slightly injured. Three large sheds were set on fire by the prisoners and destroyed and damage estimated at about £20,000 was caused. The telegraphic reports do not suggest that the prisoners in the prison secured arms and ammunition, but fuller details are expected by mail. I would mention that no political prisoners were confined in this jail.