TDS Desk

The number of prisoners in jail has risen sharply to 65,000 from 50,000 after August 5.

“A total of 69 prisons in the country. Of those, 17 are categorised as highly vulnerable.”

Inspector General of Prisons Brig Gen Syed Mohammad Motaher Hossain revealed these at a press briefing at the Directorate of Prisons in the capital on Wednesday.

He said, “More than 2200 prisoners escaped on August 5 and afterwards. We were able to arrest 1500 people, but 700 prisoners are still absconding where are militants.”

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.

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.”

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.

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.