Key Takeaways
- 100 out of 8,000 prisoners at Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi test positive for HIV.
- Adiala Jail Superintendent Sajid Baig announced plans to reduce inmate numbers by half.
- New Islamabad Jail nearing completion to accommodate half of Adiala Jail’s current population.
Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi has reported 100 HIV-positive inmates, according to Superintendent Sajid Baig. Speaking at a ceremony marking the release of the Human Rights Commission’s annual prison data report, Baig disclosed this concerning statistic, which highlights the ongoing health challenges faced by the prison system.
Baig explained that Adiala Jail currently houses around 8,000 prisoners, serving the prison populations of two cities. He stated that the number of inmates will soon be reduced by half as construction work on Islamabad Jail is nearing completion. Once operational, half of the prisoners currently at Adiala Jail will be transferred to the new facility, easing the burden on the existing jail.
The superintendent also addressed the issue of overcrowding, stating that there is no such problem in Punjab’s prisons. He noted that 10 new prisons have been built in the province in recent years, and new barracks have been constructed inside Adiala Jail to improve accommodation facilities.
Regarding healthcare, Baig confirmed that medical services are available to every prisoner. He mentioned that the jail has six male doctors and one female doctor to provide medical care. Regular medical check-ups are conducted for prisoners facing health issues, and basic medical tests are also available for initial assessment and treatment.
In response to the HIV cases, Baig emphasized the availability of medical services and the ongoing efforts to improve the living conditions of prisoners. He stated that most prisoners at Adiala Jail were arrested on different charges and have the right to seek post-arrest bail.
The superintendent highlighted the progress being made in the prison system, noting that the new Islamabad Jail will significantly reduce the inmate population at Adiala Jail. He expressed confidence in the new facility’s ability to provide better healthcare and living conditions for the remaining prisoners.
While acknowledging the challenges, Baig remained optimistic about the future, stating that the new jail will help in managing the prison population more effectively and ensuring better health outcomes for inmates.
