Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced that the state government will investigate a recent case of an HIV-positive inmate. This comes amid reports of a concerning increase in HIV cases among jail inmates. According to sources, 226 inmates across 31 jails in Assam have tested positive for HIV in just four months, as reported by NDTV. The government aims to understand the circumstances surrounding these infections.
Sarma was asked about reports of HIV-positive cases among inmates in Assam prisons and whether the government was planning to conduct more tests in jails. “I have also been informed that one person has been identified as HIV-positive. “We will examine the matter in detail to ascertain how and under what circumstances the person became infected while being in jail. The government’s response comes amid reports about HIV infections among inmates in Assam jails and questions over testing and medical care for prisoners.
Earlier, Assam Health Minister Ashok Singhal said Assam has approximately 33,000 active HIV/AIDS patients.
We have taken the matter seriously, and I believe the Gauhati High Court is also seized of the issue,” Sarma said. He said the government would examine the case in detail to find out how the person became infected while in jail. We will look into the reasons and circumstances and, at the same time, ensure that the affected person receives the necessary medical care and treatment,” the Chief Minister said.
