Student's Prison Ordeal: Friendship Amidst Fear

In 2019, Japanese student Hirotoshi Tanaka's journey to learn English in Bengaluru led to an unexpected 19-day stay in judicial custody following an altercation. Prison proved a bewildering experience for Tanaka, who had limited understanding of India's legal system. He found solace in a special section for foreign prisoners where English films were screened and inmates cooked their own meals, enjoying tomato curry.

Tanaka recalled being intimidated by some inmates and spending time in the psychiatric ward. However, he also received kindness from prison officials, including access to a computer in the chief superintendent's office. His most significant support came from Shankar, an inmate convicted of three murders who had found deep devotion in Christianity.

Shankar became Tanaka's closest confidant, accompanying him to video-conference court hearings and offering crucial support when bail funds were difficult to arrange. Tanaka credits Shankar's help for enabling his release. Shankar was later transferred to Vijayapura jail in January 2020.

Years later, the Karnataka State Human Rights Commission acknowledged Tanaka's unnecessary judicial custody, recommending and eventually paying Rs 75,000 in compensation in 2026. Tanaka cherishes the memories of prison, not just the fear, but also the English films, the food, and the profound friendship forged with Shankar.