A fresh case of HIV has been detected at Jharpada Special Jail in Bhubaneswar, taking the total number of HIV-positive inmates in the prison to nine, raising concerns over inmate health monitoring and prison healthcare.

The latest case came to light after an accused arrested by Khandagiri Police was produced before a court and later lodged in Jharpada Special Jail. As part of the mandatory admission procedure, the inmate underwent a medical examination and health screening before entering the prison.

During the screening, the inmate tested HIV-positive, prison sources said. Following the diagnosis, jail authorities initiated medical care and counselling in accordance with the Health Department’s guidelines.

Officials said all HIV-positive inmates are being provided with necessary treatment, regular health monitoring and counselling. The prison administration has also continued routine health check-ups and awareness programmes to prevent the spread of infectious diseases and ensure timely medical intervention.

The latest detection comes days after five inmates at Choudwar Circle Jail in Cuttack were found to be HIV-positive. Of them, two are convicted prisoners, while three are undertrial inmates. They have been housed in a separate ward and are receiving medical treatment under the supervision of a doctor and two pharmacists.

Earlier, eight HIV-positive inmates had already been identified at Jharpada Special Jail. With the addition of the latest case, the number has now increased to nine.

The development comes against the backdrop of previous concerns over prison management at Jharpada Jail. The facility had recently come under scrutiny after several inmates allegedly fell seriously ill due to the suspected misuse of cough syrup and expired medicines inside the prison. While the incident was initially believed to be food poisoning, subsequent medical findings indicated possible substance abuse, prompting questions over security and the availability of prohibited items within the jail.

The latest HIV case has once again drawn attention to healthcare, screening protocols and overall prison management in Odisha’s correctional facilities.