Beyond Bars: An Analysis of Prisoners’ Mental Health in India

Abstract

Human rights are available to every human being irrespective of their position. As per the National Mental health Policy (2014) prisoners are  considered as part of vulnerable group. They are prone to poor mental health conditions due to unequal treatment of inmates, poor infrastructure, stigma , non –rehabilitative approach and overcrowding. Even after passing of the Mental Healthcare Act 2017, prisoners mental health are at stake. This often results in mental health deterioration, suicide attempts and incapacity to live life in a dignified manner after releasing from jail. Effective implementation of legislation and policies related to mental health can serve as  powerful tools in protecting the rights detained persons in jail who are suffering from mental health conditions. The research will examine the legal framework on prisoners’ mental health and evaluate various shortcomings present in India. It further recommends legislative reforms for mentally ill prisoners as  rehabilitation being the core goal of Indian system, improving prisoners’ mental health is essential for the society.