Bhubaneswar, July 2 -- An increase in the number of HIV-positive inmates was reported at Jharpada Jail in Odisha's Bhubaneswar, with the count currently standing at eight.

The issue came to light after it was learnt that an accused, who was recently remanded to judicial custody by the Women's Police Station in connection with a rape case, tested HIV-positive. Following the revelation, the jail authorities initiated official communication with the concerned authorities.

According to reports, the jail authorities wrote to the Special POCSO Court and the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) after confirming the accused's HIV-positive status, informing them about the matter.

The communication was sent in accordance with official procedure a...