Chhattisgarh High Court Receives Detailed Report on Prison Inmate Deaths
The Chhattisgarh High Court was presented with a comprehensive government affidavit on Wednesday, revealing that a total of 354 inmate deaths were recorded in state prisons between 2021 and March 31, 2026. The year-wise data indicates fluctuations in mortality rates, but the document highlights an overall recent decline in deaths, which the state attributes to significant improvements in medical care and prison management systems.
State Challenges Media Reports on Prison Death Irregularities
The affidavit strongly contested earlier media reports suggesting irregularities in prison deaths, labeling them as "misleading" and based on incomplete facts. It clarified that the majority of inmate deaths occurred in hospitals during the course of treatment, demonstrating that prisoners were consistently provided with medical care and institutional support.
Notable Decline in Deaths During 2025
The state government emphasized a notable reduction in inmate deaths during 2025, recording an approximate 18% decline compared to 2024 figures. This improvement is directly attributed to enhanced medical supervision and upgraded healthcare systems implemented within prison facilities across Chhattisgarh.
Comprehensive Healthcare Framework in Prisons
Detailing the healthcare infrastructure, the affidavit confirmed that medical facilities are available across all state prisons. The system includes:
- Regular health check-ups for all inmates
- Timely referrals to higher medical centers when necessary
- Adequate supply of medicines and medical equipment
- Psychiatric care through district hospitals, medical colleges, and the state mental health hospital in Bilaspur
Mental Well-being and Suicide Prevention Initiatives
The government outlined several initiatives focused on inmate mental health, including:
- Regular yoga and meditation sessions
- Professional counseling services
- Comprehensive suicide prevention programs
Judicial Oversight and Compliance Procedures
The affidavit emphasized that all custodial deaths undergo mandatory postmortem examinations and judicial inquiries, strictly following guidelines established by the National Human Rights Commission. The state categorically denied any negligence or procedural delays on the part of jail authorities in handling these cases.
Court Observations on State Compliance
A division bench comprising Chief Justice Ramesh Sinha and Justice Ravindra Kumar Agrawal noted that the affidavits reflect substantial compliance with earlier court directions. The bench observed continuous and proactive efforts by the state government to improve inmate welfare, particularly evidenced by the reduction in prison deaths.
Additional Departmental Enquiries Progress
In related developments, the Director General of Jail and Correctional Services in Nava Raipur has submitted a personal affidavit to the Chhattisgarh High Court regarding the progress of departmental enquiries against warders and officers of Central Jail, Durg. This submission further demonstrates the state's commitment to transparency and accountability within the correctional system.
