New Delhi: In a recent comprehensive medical checkup of approximately 10,500 inmates at Tihar Jail, New Delhi, it was found that 125 prisoners are HIV positive while 200 have been diagnosed with syphilis. This revelation has prompted the jail administration to heighten its vigilance and health monitoring protocols.
Tihar Jail’s Medical Initiative: DG Satish Golcha Leads Comprehensive Health Checks
Following the appointment of DG Satish Golcha, Tihar Jail, the largest correctional facility in the capital and one of India’s most prominent, conducted extensive medical screenings during May and June. This initiative aimed to identify and address health issues among the inmates, including specialized tests for female prisoners.
HIV and Syphilis Cases Uncovered in Routine Screening
According to the report by NDTV, many of the inmates who tested positive for HIV had already been carriers of the virus upon their arrival at the jail. Alongside the 125 HIV-positive cases, the screenings revealed 200 instances of syphilis among the male prisoners. Fortunately, no cases of tuberculosis were detected.
Enhanced Health Surveillance: Collaboration with AIIMS and Safdarjung Hospital
Under the guidance of the new DG, Tihar Jail’s protective survey department, in collaboration with AIIMS and Safdarjung Hospital, conducted additional tests for cervical cancer among female inmates. This proactive approach underscores the administration’s commitment to improving healthcare and preventative measures within the prison system.
This intensified focus on inmate health is seen as a crucial step in addressing the spread of infectious diseases and ensuring the well-being of the prison population.
