Ensure Special Facilities For Elderly Prisoners: MHA Tells States, UTs

New Delhi: The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has issued an advisory to all states and Union Territories (UTs) emphasizing the need for special provisions in prisons to ensure the safety and well-being of elderly inmates. The advisory, dated July 1, highlights the vulnerability of senior citizens in custodial environments, who often require additional support for daily activities.
The MHA has directed Chief Secretaries and prison authorities to create accessible accommodations tailored to the physical limitations of elderly prisoners. This includes addressing their dietary needs by developing meal plans that consider age-related health challenges. Furthermore, the advisory underscores the necessity of providing adequate healthcare services, including mental health support, to meet the specific requirements of elderly inmates.
To enhance the quality of life for this demographic, the MHA has called for training and sensitization of prison staff to better understand the challenges faced by senior inmates. States and UTs are urged to take prompt action to implement these recommendations, ensuring that the custodial experience for elderly prisoners is improved and their unique needs are adequately addressed.