The Cotton Corporation of India (CCI), based in Bhatinda, Punjab, supplies a special type of soft fiber called J-34 to Buxar Jail in Bihar. This fiber is used to make the hanging rope, known as the “Manila rope,” named after its original source, Manila. These ropes are made under strict guidelines set by the India Factories Act, which grants Buxar Jail the exclusive right to manufacture them.
How the ropes are made
The ropes are made by prisoners at Buxar Jail, who are specially trained for this task. They follow a precise formula to ensure the ropes are strong enough to cause death without causing injury, adhering to the rule of execution that mandates “the rope can cause death but cannot inflict injury.”
Why Buxar Jail is ideal for rope production
The production of the Manila rope requires specific environmental conditions, including good humidity in air. Buxar Jail’s proximity to the river Ganga, where humidity levels often exceed 80%, makes it an ideal place for rope production. The high humidity contributes to the softness of the rope, a critical factor in ensuring they fulfill their purpose without causing physical injury.
Usage and replacement of the ropes
Although these ropes can technically be reused, they usually are not, as executions in India are rare. By the time another execution occurs, the rope often becomes unusable and must be replaced with a fresh one to meet safety standards.
While the topic is undoubtedly somber, the precision and care involved in the production of these ropes highlight an often-overlooked aspect of the Indian judicial system.
