Ex IPS officer Amitabh Thakur alleges death threat in Deoria jail

Former IPS officer Amitabh Thakur , a well-known activist and vocal critic of the ruling government, has alleged that he received a death threat while lodged in Deoria district jail . The incident has raised fresh concerns about his security inside the prison.

Thakur, who has been in jail since December 10, 2025 , is accused in a case related to alleged irregularities in the allotment of an industrial plot. He has consistently denied the charges, claiming the case is politically motivated and part of a wider attempt to silence his criticism of the government.

In a written application filed before the court of District Judge Dhanendra Pratap Singh , Thakur said a computer-typed note containing abusive language and a threat to kill him was found outside his barrack. He claimed the note indicates that his life is in danger inside the jail.

His lawyer, Praveen Dwivedi , told the court that the threat shows the severity of the risk to Thakur’s safety. Jail Superintendent Prem Sagar Shukla confirmed that Thakur informed authorities about the note and said the matter is under investigation.

The court has directed that the application be placed along with the bail petition and considered during the hearing on Saturday.

Thakur was arrested in connection with alleged irregularities in the allotment of an industrial plot. The case dates back to allegations that the allotment process was manipulated, leading to improper benefits for certain parties. Thakur has denied these claims, arguing that the charges are baseless and politically driven.

Amitabh Thakur is not just a former IPS officer but also a prominent activist known for his outspoken stance against corruption and alleged government excesses. He has frequently criticised the state administration and has been vocal on issues such as law and order, governance, and alleged political interference in administrative matters.

His supporters argue that the case against him is a part of a larger pattern where activists and critics are targeted through legal means to suppress dissent. They believe his arrest and prolonged detention are meant to send a message to others who challenge the government’s policies.

Thakur’s family and supporters have also raised questions about the delay in hearing his bail plea, calling it an attempt to keep him behind bars without due process.

On Saturday, the court is scheduled to hear Thakur’s regular bail plea along with the anticipatory bail application of his wife, Nutan Thakur . The defence has requested that Amitabh Thakur be physically present in court to personally present arguments in both cases, ensuring that no factual detail is overlooked.

Police and jail authorities said further action will be taken based on the outcome of the inquiry into the alleged threat.