The Centre has asked chief secretaries of all states, Union Territories (UTs), and heads of prisons to give extra attention to the dietary plans of elderly inmates, and ensure that adequate healthcare facilities, including mental health services, are provided to them.
In a letter dated July 1, Arun Sobti, Director, Prison Reforms, said prisons house several vulnerable inmates, including elderly individuals, who often require special assistance and support to manage their daily activities in a custodial environment.
“As you are aware, the Centre is committed towards creating an ecosystem for protecting, caring, and providing for the well-being of its elderly citizens. Keeping this general objective in mind, the States and UTs are requested to make suitable provisions for special/accessible accommodation in Prisons and Correctional Institutions for the elderly prisoners, keeping in view their physical limitations,” he said.
Sobti said it is expected that states and UTs will take appropriate measures to implement all the recommendations for the welfare of elderly prisoners.
“Special attention may also be given to the dietary requirements of such elderly inmates, with meal plans curated in accordance with the challenges of advanced age,” he added.
“It may also be ensured that adequate healthcare facilities – including mental health services – are made available in prisons to address the special needs of elderly inmates. Prison staff may also be suitably sensitised/ briefed about this aspect,” he said.