Chhattisgarh Assembly Debates 66 Prisoner Deaths Amid Overcrowding and Investigations

Chhattisgarh's Legislative Assembly discussed the deaths of 66 inmates in state jails from January 2025 to January 2026. Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma confirmed these figures, noting 18 judicial inquiries completed and 48 ongoing. Opposition leader Bhupesh Baghel raised concerns about overcrowding, with jails reportedly at 150% capacity, and linked rising crime rates to deteriorating prison conditions. The government assured ongoing investigations and prison reforms, while the Opposition questioned systemic issues affecting inmate health and safety.