Arvind Kejriwal Moves Delhi High Court to Provide Insulin in Jails

In a move aimed at ensuring proper medical care for inmates lodged in Delhi jails, Arvind Kejriwal, the Chief Minister of Delhi, has approached the Delhi High Court through a petition. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) filed the petition on behalf of Arvind Kejriwal today, April 19, 2024. The court is scheduled to hear the petition today itself at 2 pm.

The petition argues that diabetic inmates in Delhi jails are not being provided with the insulin they require to manage their blood sugar levels. This lack of access to essential medication can lead to serious health complications, including diabetic ketoacidosis, coma, and even death.

The petition highlights the right to health as a fundamental right guaranteed by the Indian Constitution. It emphasizes that denying inmates access to insulin constitutes a violation of this fundamental right.

The AAP government, through this petition, is urging the Delhi High Court to issue a directive to the Delhi Prisons Department to ensure that all diabetic inmates are provided with the insulin they need. The petition also seeks to establish a mechanism for regular monitoring of blood sugar levels of diabetic inmates and for ensuring that they receive timely medical attention in case of emergencies.

This move by the Arvind Kejriwal-led government has been hailed by human rights activists and public health experts. They have commended the government for taking steps to address the critical issue of healthcare in jails.

Importance of Insulin for Diabetics

Insulin is a hormone that is essential for regulating blood sugar levels in the body. People with diabetes either produce insufficient insulin or their bodies are unable to effectively utilize the insulin that is produced. This leads to high blood sugar levels, which can cause a wide range of health problems.

For diabetic individuals, access to insulin is a matter of life and death. Without insulin, their blood sugar levels can become dangerously high, leading to serious health complications.

The Right to Health as a Fundamental Right

The Indian Constitution guarantees the right to health as a fundamental right under Article 21, which protects the right to life and personal liberty. This right to health encompasses the right to access essential medical care, including medication.

Denying inmates access to insulin constitutes a violation of their fundamental right to health. Inmates, despite being incarcerated, do not forfeit their fundamental rights. The government has a responsibility to ensure that their health needs are met.

A Call for Action

The Arvind Kejriwal government's petition to the Delhi High Court is a welcome step towards ensuring that diabetic inmates in Delhi jails have access to the insulin they need. This move sets a positive precedent for other states in India to follow suit and address the issue of healthcare in jails.

The right to health is a fundamental right that must be upheld for all individuals, including those who are incarcerated. By ensuring access to essential medication like insulin, we can protect the health and well-being of vulnerable populations and promote a more just and humane society.