Inspector General of Prisons Brig Gen Syed Mohammad Motaher Hossain has revealed that 17 out of Bangladesh's 69 jails are categorised as highly vulnerable, raising serious concerns over security and infrastructure.
“Many of these facilities are decades’ old, necessitating urgent action from the government,” he said while speaking at a press briefing at the Directorate of Prisons in the capital on Monday.
The IG mentioned a series of reforms aimed at improving conditions for inmates, including enhanced meals, better medical services, and expanded visitation rights. To mitigate these risks, the government has already begun constructing new prisons, he said.
Prison Management
“Meals for prisoners now include higher protein levels to ensure better nutrition,” said Motaher Hossain while outlining improvements implemented over the past three months.
He said medical services within the prison system have also seen a boost. “We’ve expedited ambulance deployment to respond swiftly to emergencies.”
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Boosting Security
To address security challenges, he said, the prison authorities have introduced advanced surveillance systems. High-risk prisoners are housed in specialised cells equipped with mobile phone jammers, and daily searches are conducted to prevent illegal activities. CCTV cameras ensure continuous monitoring.
New measures to prevent contraband smuggling include body scanners and dog squads deployed in vulnerable prisons.
Motaher Hossain stressed a crackdown on corruption within the prison system, with several officers being dismissed or reassigned for misconduct.
Rehabilitation
Motaher Hossain said rehabilitation remains a priority, with prisons increasingly being transformed into centers for vocational training and productivity.
In partnership with the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), a garment manufacturing line is being introduced, offering inmates employment opportunities after their release.
Besides, Motaher Hossain said, prison workshops are being modernised, and new manufacturing units are being set up to boost inmate productivity. Solar energy projects on prison rooftops are contributing to the country’s green energy goals, he added.
Addressing Healthcare
The Inspector General acknowledged gaps in prison healthcare, particularly the absence of dedicated cells in hospitals for inmate treatment.
He assured that plans are underway to establish a central prison hospital. Legal reforms to modernise prison laws and regulations are also being pursued.
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Rising Inmate Numbers
Bangladesh's prison population has risen sharply, from 50,000 earlier this year to approximately 65,000. Despite the strain on infrastructure, authorities are taking measures to address overcrowding and improve living conditions.
Motaher Hossain also clarified recent concerns regarding terrorist inmates, confirming that 15 prisoners had been convicted of terrorism-related offenses.
He stressed that these designations were made by the judiciary and not the prison authorities.