Why is it in the news?
The HSV outbreak in Jalpaiguri jail exposed poor prison health conditions.
Category: Social Issues
Important Points:
● Prison occupancy rate is about 120% indicating overcrowding
● High number of undertrial prisoners worsens conditions
● Prisoners are 5 times more likely to get TB
● High prevalence of HIV and skin diseases in prisons
● Severe mental health issues including depression and suicides
● 43% vacancy in medical staff in prisons
● Only 25 psychologists for ~5.7 lakh inmates
● Article 21 ensures right to life and dignity of prisoners
● Model Prisons Act 2023 aims to modernize prison system