Dhaka:The Department of Prisons in Bangladesh has rolled out a robust seven-point action plan designed to enhance security, enforce discipline, improve accountability, and refine staff management across all prison facilities in the country.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the action plan includes measures such as stringent control over activities post-lockup, continuous CCTV surveillance, actions against unauthorized absences from duty, accountability for supervisory officers, retraining negligent staff, special precautions during adverse weather, and surprise inspections for regular supervision.
The initiative arises from concerns over security risks and management failures due to negligence and indiscipline in some prisons. Additional Director General of Prisons Colonel Mesbahul Alam Salim stated that the department has bolstered its monitoring mechanisms to ensure the effective implementation of these directives.
As part of the plan, a daily operational routine has been mandated for every prison, requiring regular feedback submission to prison authorities. The Operational Branch is tasked with monitoring compliance, and efforts are underway to recruit additional manpower, including deputy jailors, to oversee the implementation. The department has reported a 90 percent compliance rate and anticipates visible benefits from these measures within three to four months.
The guidelines require strict regulation of after-lockup arrangements, necessitating written approval and documentation for any exceptions. Continuous CCTV monitoring is mandated, with the establishment of dedicated monitoring rooms where feasible. Unauthorized absence from duty will result in immediate reporting and departmental action, with supervisory officers held accountable for any negligence.
Retraining and motivational measures are outlined for staff repeatedly reported for negligence, with potential administrative transfers or departmental proceedings as necessary. Special precautions are advised during adverse weather, and regular supervision and surprise inspections are mandated to address any security shortcomings.
The seven-point directive, issued in August, warns of potential damage to the prison administration's image and adverse public reaction in the event of any untoward incidents. All officials are instructed to implement these measures immediately to prevent security lapses and ensure institutional discipline and accountability.