The state health department has reportedly begun identifying suitable spaces within the jails to implement the initiative.
Confirming the development, a senior health official said, “Yes, there is a proposal to set up AACs in central jails across Punjab. The proposal is under consideration, and we are examining the modalities for implementation.” The official added that though the initial plan is to establish AACs in central jails only, the project could later be extended to other jails as well, reports the Hindustan Times. Punjab already has 24/7 medical officers deployed in all jails; however, the AAC model is expected to significantly expand access to medical care. The government recently floated tenders to establish 236 new AACs, which will bring the total number of functional clinics in the state to around 1,117.
A senior health department official mentioned that AACs offer 107 types of free medicines and 47 types of free diagnostic tests, which will significantly improve medical treatment for jail inmates.
According to the news reports, Punjab’s prison system has long faced challenges due to overcrowding, with inmates suffering from serious illnesses, including HIV, hepatitis C, and tuberculosis. In August, the principal secretary (jails) had written to the principal secretary (health) highlighting the strain on prison healthcare services. The letter noted inadequate medical infrastructure, vacant healthcare posts, and limited preventive care facilities.
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Some health officials have raised concerns over the legal implications of deploying contract-based medical officers under the AAC model. Speaking to Hindustan Times, a former medical officer at Patiala Central Jail warned, “Any inmate could make multiple visits to AACs, which may appear pretentious. Later, they might use medical records to seek bail on the grounds of inadequate treatment. The government should carefully consider the legal ramifications of this project.”
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