Patna: Mental health concerns are emerging as a significant issue in Bihar’s prison system, with a special screening exercise across the state’s 39 jails identifying 113 inmates with some form of mental illness and another 450 showing signs of early-stage depression and stress.
Officials said some long-term inmates have displayed unusual and aggressive behaviour, while severe psychological distress has reportedly manifested in self-harming behaviour and aggression towards fellow prisoners.
Following the findings, arrangements are being initiated for specialised mental health screening, treatment and counselling of inmates.
Long-term prisoners particularly vulnerable
According to officials and mental health experts, inmates serving long sentences are particularly vulnerable to psychological problems.
Prisoners convicted of or facing trial in murder cases reportedly constitute the largest group among those experiencing mental health problems. Factors such as fear of life imprisonment or the death penalty, guilt, social isolation and prolonged incarceration can contribute to deteriorating mental health.
Experts have also identified prison overcrowding, delays in the disposal of cases, prolonged separation from families and loneliness as major factors contributing to depression and psychological distress among inmates.
Regular counselling and opportunities for meaningful engagement and activities could help address some of these concerns, experts said.
Overcrowding adds to pressure
The prison population varies significantly across Bihar’s jails.
Saharsa Divisional Jail, whose capacity has been increased to 805, currently houses 897 inmates. Beur Jail Superintendent Rajiv Kumar said overcrowding remains a concern.
In contrast, Munger jail has a capacity of 1,142 but currently houses around 600 inmates.
Purnia Central Jail, an important prison facility in the Seemanchal region, has a capacity of 1,308 but currently houses 2,108 inmates.
Jail Superintendent Manoj Kumar said inmates suffering from mental health problems are being provided special care.
Treatment and staff training underway
Bhagalpur Special Central Jail is operating below its sanctioned capacity, housing around 1,208 inmates against a capacity of 3,288.
Officials said inmates requiring specialised psychiatric treatment are being referred to facilities in Ara or Alwar.
Prison staff from across the state are also undergoing training at Mimansa in Bengaluru to improve their ability to identify and respond to mental health concerns among inmates.
“Some jails are overcrowded, while others are under-capacity,” said Jitendra Kumar, Director, BIKA (Bihar Jail Administration).
Years behind bars taking a toll
Experts say the psychological impact of prolonged incarceration can become more pronounced as prisoners grow older.
Some inmates who were physically and mentally fit when they entered prison in their youth develop serious health problems after years of confinement. The loss of productive work, social roles and regular contact with family members can intensify feelings of isolation.
For some long-term inmates, depression may manifest through memory problems, disorientation and behavioural changes, rather than simply sadness.
The findings from the screening exercise have highlighted the need for sustained mental health interventions inside Bihar’s prisons, including regular screening, counselling, treatment and opportunities for constructive engagement.
