Are Conditions at Chittagong Central Jail in Bangladesh Unbearable?
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Synopsis
The Chittagong Central Jail in Bangladesh is facing a crisis, with inmate numbers exceeding capacity by over 300%. This has led to calls for urgent reform and construction of a new facility. Local leaders and human rights advocates highlight the dire need for improved conditions to uphold the dignity and rights of prisoners. What comes next?
Key Takeaways
- Chittagong Central Jail is severely overcrowded, with over 6000 inmates currently.
- Local authorities propose constructing a new prison to address these conditions.
- Prison officials stress the need for facilities that offer rehabilitation and vocational training.
- Human rights advocates highlight the critical violation of rights due to overcrowding.
- Government action is required to ensure basic rights and humane treatment for all inmates.
Dhaka, June 28 (NationPress) Reports indicate that the Chittagong Central Jail in Bangladesh is currently accommodating more than three times its intended capacity, resulting in severe overcrowding for inmates.
To tackle this pressing issue, local authorities have initiated plans to construct a new prison. However, despite numerous requests from the Prisons Department, no land has been designated for this purpose as of yet, according to local media reports.
According to sources within the prison, the Prothom Alo daily revealed that the facility, designed to hold 1853 prisoners, is now housing an average of 6000 inmates.
“At present, the number of inmates in Chittagong Prison exceeds three times the official capacity. We have made multiple appeals for land to build a new prison. A new facility could serve as a correctional center, providing vocational training for inmates in sectors like fishing and garment manufacturing,” stated Mohammad Motahar Hossain, the Director General of the Prisons Department.
Previously, the Chittagong district administration reported that areas in Jangal Salimpur are still under illegal occupation and cannot be transferred to prison authorities until they are recovered.
Shahadat Hossain, a prominent leader of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and current Mayor of Chittagong City Corporation, who is currently incarcerated due to a political case, described the conditions as “inhumane.”
“The pressure on inmates is overwhelming. I have witnessed situations where 100 individuals are confined to a space meant for 30-40. This is completely unacceptable. Inadequate space and restroom facilities lead to various hardships for the prisoners. It is critical that a new prison is constructed in Chittagong to safeguard basic rights and provide healthcare,” the BNP leader emphasized.
In an October 2024 report, the Department of Prisons revealed that the country's 68 prisons, designed for 42,887 inmates, are currently housing 53,831.
Jyotirmoy Barua, a human rights advocate and senior lawyer at the Supreme Court of Bangladesh, remarked that overcrowding in prisons represents a profound infringement on human rights.
“Every individual is presumed innocent until proven guilty. It is the government's obligation to protect their rights. Authorities must consider temporary solutions to ensure constitutional equality for those accused, except for convicted individuals,” he added.
Point of View
It's imperative to recognize the severe implications of overcrowded prisons in Bangladesh. The situation at Chittagong Central Jail not only breaches human rights but also calls into question our commitment to justice and rehabilitation. Addressing these challenges should be a priority for both the government and society at large.
NationPress
28/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current capacity of Chittagong Central Jail?
Chittagong Central Jail is designed to accommodate 1853 prisoners but currently houses an average of 6000 inmates.
Why is a new prison necessary in Chittagong?
A new prison is essential to alleviate overcrowding and provide better living conditions, basic rights, and healthcare for inmates.
What has the government done to address this issue?
Local authorities have proposed building a new prison, but land allocation has not yet been resolved despite multiple requests.
Who has spoken out about the conditions in the jail?
BNP leader Shahadat Hossain and human rights activists like Jyotirmoy Barua have publicly condemned the inhumane conditions.
What human rights issues are present in overcrowded prisons?
Overcrowded prisons violate basic human rights, including the right to adequate living conditions, healthcare, and dignity.
