Bhubaneswar, July 2: A concern has emerged at Jharpada Special Jail as the number of HIV-positive inmates continues to increase. According to reports, a man who was recently remanded to judicial custody in connection with an alleged rape case registered by the Women's Police Station has been found to be HIV-positive.

The accused was arrested and produced before the court after being booked for allegedly raping a minor at a coaching centre. Following confirmation of his HIV-positive status, the jail authorities have written to the Special POCSO Court and the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), informing them of the development.

Sources said that there are currently eight HIV-positive inmates lodged in Jharpada Jail. The reports have triggered concern and anxiety among inmates and jail staff.

Note: HIV is not transmitted through casual contact or by sharing the same living space. It spreads through specific routes such as unprotected sexual contact, sharing contaminated needles, transfusion of infected blood, or from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.