Madras High Court: Prisoners Entitled to Periodic Medical Check-Ups and Diet Suited to Medical Needs

The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court held that prisoners have a right to periodic medical check-ups and a diet suited to their medical condition under Article 21 of the Constitution.

The Court passed the order while granting 28 days’ leave to a life convict who underwent leg amputation due to diabetes complications in custody.

The Court said prison authorities must ensure timely diagnosis, treatment, and appropriate diet, including for diabetic or renal inmates.

It directed biennial master health check-ups and a medical camp to identify diabetic prisoners.

[Kalai Selvi v. State of Tamil Nadu]