Should All Prisoners Over 70 Access Free Health Care Under ABPM-JAY?
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Synopsis
In a pivotal decision, the NHRC mandates that all prisoners aged 70 and above be enrolled in the ABPM-JAY health scheme, reaffirming their right to healthcare while incarcerated. This ruling not only reinforces the importance of health rights but also sets a precedent for the treatment of elderly inmates in India.
Key Takeaways
- NHRC mandates healthcare access for elderly prisoners.
- Ruling emphasizes fundamental right to health.
- States must facilitate enrollment in ABPM-JAY.
- Reference to Supreme Court ruling reinforces legal obligations.
- Healthcare for inmates is a moral imperative.
New Delhi, July 21 (NationPress) In a significant ruling, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) announced that all prisoners aged 70 or older should benefit from the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (ABPM-JAY), emphasizing it as a fundamental right to life, an official reported on Monday.
The NHRC panel, led by member Priyank Kanoongo, referenced a Supreme Court ruling to affirm that being imprisoned does not disqualify individuals aged 70 and above from accessing this government-supported healthcare initiative.
In a directive issued on July 17, Kanoongo stated, "Individuals held in custody retain their fundamental right to health, and it is the duty of the State to provide adequate healthcare for all inmates."
The panel instructed the Director General of Prisons in all states and Union Territories to ensure that all eligible prisoners aged 70 and over receive healthcare benefits in alignment with the Vay Vandana card under ABPM-JAY.
"Prison authorities must assist all qualifying inmates in registering on the relevant portal for this scheme," Kanoongo added, requesting a report on actions taken within four weeks.
This order was issued during the consideration of a complaint lodged by Rabindra Kumar on July 2.
Previously, the NHRC cited a Supreme Court verdict in Sujata Mukunda Manerao vs State of Maharashtra, 2003, which established that providing adequate medical assistance to inmates is a right under Article 21 of the Constitution.
The NHRC's ruling referenced the Supreme Court's statement, "It is the State's obligation to care for the health of inmates in jails, as they cannot independently seek treatment and rely on hospital authorities. Proper medical aid is a right they possess under Article 21 of the Constitution..."
Point of View
I firmly believe that this ruling by the NHRC reflects a progressive step toward upholding human rights within our correctional facilities. Ensuring that elderly prisoners receive appropriate healthcare is not just a legal obligation but a moral imperative that aligns with our nation's commitment to human dignity.
NationPress
09/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the NHRC ruling entail?
The NHRC ruling mandates that all prisoners aged 70 and above be enrolled in the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (ABPM-JAY), ensuring they access essential healthcare services.
Why is this ruling significant?
This ruling is significant as it reinforces the fundamental right to health for prisoners, especially the elderly, and ensures their well-being within the justice system.
What is the Vay Vandana card?
The Vay Vandana card is a component of the ABPM-JAY scheme that aims to provide healthcare benefits to senior citizens, including those in prison.
What actions must state authorities take following this ruling?
State authorities are required to facilitate enrollment for eligible prisoners on the ABPM-JAY portal and provide a report on the actions taken.
How does this ruling relate to Article 21 of the Constitution?
The ruling is based on Article 21, which guarantees the right to life and personal liberty, emphasizing that health care is a fundamental aspect of this right.
