I kind of recently rewatched some parts of a movie that I watched some time back, and coincidentally, it was about prison operations and inmates. Though not set in my own part of the world, I guess it in a way adds more to what I'll be sharing in this post; whether inmates languishing in prison should be allowed to enjoy the same benefits of healthcare as law-abiding citizens. It's a critical consideration.
I mean, these are people convicted of one crime or another, some on several counts and for some even the worst criminal offences one could think of. How about the pain they've caused others as well? And are they even remorseful about it? I think it's hard to look at the various reasons and questions and find an easy yes to the question; that they should be allowed to enjoy the same healthcare benefits as law-abiding citizens.
It's actually hard, and for everyone who went through pain caused by them, it's understandable why they might not agree to it. Even from some of the scenes of the movie I was talking about, there was this act committed by one of the prisoners that could easily leave anyone thinking so, especially those affected. But I try to think and consider things more deeply. Doing that helps my rationale about a matter, and what the conclusion about it should be.
I won't say that they should be denied healthcare benefits. It's an uneasy choice but that's it. Here's a reason I think so. If the law is getting them arrested and locked up, it's responsible for them. If they were free, they'd find a way to provide for themselves healthcare, be it the right or wrong way. But when they're set behind those bars, not condemned to death, they're the responsibility of those who put them there. That's why even feeding is provided for them.
It would also be a crime by the government and authorities if prisoners were refused healthcare and they met their demise because of that. Such itself won't make the system, the authorities or the government better than the criminals. They did wrong and are there to serve punishment; be it lifetime, or some extended period behind bars. It seems they're paying for that already. Perhaps, not how many would want it, but I consider the law is taking its course.
Prisons, especially in some parts of the world are very unhygienic places. Falling sick there could be easy. Even if not for the poor hygiene, adapting to life there takes a toll on many. It still boils down to the fact that if the government is arresting and locking up criminals, not condemned to death, then it's responsible for them and their basic needs. Also, if not provided healthcare when they need it, how will they live to serve their sentences?
It's easier to say no to providing them healthcare and pretty much everyone will understand why, looking at it from the surface level. Saying otherwise is an uneasy route to go. But when looked at more deeply, we'll see the points or reasons why. They're still humans, people can also say that. Well, they're. Nevertheless, this is never a support or encouragement for their deeds, nor does it absolve them of those deeds. That's why the law has them in prison, paying for their wrongs.
Image is AI generated.
