Behind The Prison Walls

They arrested me for taking bribes, but in my heart, I knew I had not,

I was helpless and in a quandary; in desperation legal help I sought.

 Without evidence, they unjustly thrust me ruthlessly behind the bar,

“I’d hamper investigation”- in so doing, my reputation they did mar.

My companions are hardened criminals, waiting to be legally tried,

For months they are languishing, without a hearing, some have died!

I wonder what my fate will be! Will I moulder and rot forever, here?

I don’t deserve to be shoddily treated, my life is unjustly ruined I fear!

I am used to my air-conditioned room; I am oozing drops here in the heat.

I relax on my cushioned cosy couch; here there is not a wooden chair to sit,

My bed is as soft as soft can be, here I have to lie on the hard rough floor,

The room is claustrophobic, for fresh air and ventilation, there is no window;

My bones are stiff, head throbs with blood pressure, teeth I have lost a few----

How can I digest the rice as hard as stone chips, edible fare is my just due!

They serve chapattis like leather; can anyone pull them apart, or even chew them?!

 I am used to a diet fit for my age; a prison life must be humane, is my view!

I have to bathe with half-a -a bucket of water, whereas at home I had a tub full;

The toilets are odorous and filthy with muck, but sharing the facility, is the rule,

They’ve given me a spiritual book to read, even to skim through it, I’ve no desire;

 To verify one’s veracity, can you subject anyone to a damaging ordeal by Fire?!!!