Dhaka: Inspector General (IG) of Prisons Brigadier General Syed Md. Motaher Hossain announced today that Bangladesh is set to transform its prison system by renaming it 'Custodial and Correctional Service Bangladesh'. This initiative is part of a broader effort to modernize the prison infrastructure into a more humane, transparent, and technology-driven institution.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the IG of Prisons outlined the series of reforms at a press conference held at the Department of Prisons. The new name reflects a shift in prison management philosophy, focusing on security, rehabilitation, skills development, and the reintegration of inmates into society. Policy-level work on this renaming is already underway, with efforts to update prison laws and regulations to meet contemporary requirements.
As part of the modernization strategy, Munshiganj District Jail has been introduced as a cashless prison to enhance transparency. The prison headquarters and divisional structures have been reorganized for improved efficiency. To address manpower shortages, 1,899 new positions have been approved, with an additional 1,500 positions sought. Recruitment processes are becoming more transparent, competitive, merit-based, and technology-driven.
The reforms also tackle long-standing promotion issues and career progression within the prison administration. To reduce overcrowding, two central prisons and four district prisons have already commenced operations. Technology plays a crucial role, with prisons connected through the Prison Directorate's own fibre-optic network, and digital management systems for inmate calls and visitation.
Rehabilitation and skills-development programs are expanding, including sports, cultural activities, religious education, and counseling to support inmates' mental and personal development. Selected prisons, such as Narayanganj District Jail, now offer video-call facilities to help inmates maintain family connections.
Healthcare services are set to expand, with plans for a Central Prison Hospital in Keraniganj. Recommendations for 55 diploma nurse appointments have been received, and 77 ambulances have been added to the prison department's resources.
Environmental management is also part of the reform, with improvements in waste management and the planting of approximately 18,000 trees at several jails. Bangladesh currently has 75 prisons, with 21 requiring renovation, as stated by the IG of Prisons.