Inmates’ human rights must be ensured along with security in prisons: Adviser Jahangir
Humane treatment of prisoners, fair access to facilities, non-discrimination and ensuring social dignity are not only legal obligations, but also a reflection of the moral standing of the state, the adviser said.
Home Affairs Adviser Lt Gen (retd) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury has said prison administration in the current global context must balance security and the protection of human rights, stressing that the two are complementary rather than contradictory.
Speaking at the passing-out parade of the 63rd batch of women prison guards at the Kashimpur Prison Training Centre in Gazipur this morning (27 January), Jahangir said safeguarding inmates' fundamental human rights and rehabilitating them as reformed citizens is a core responsibility of the state.
Humane treatment of prisoners, fair access to facilities, non-discrimination and ensuring social dignity are not only legal obligations, but also a reflection of the moral standing of the state, the adviser added.
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He said trained prison guards with a humane outlook play a crucial role in ensuring both security and human rights inside jails.
The home adviser noted that prisons are an integral part of the criminal justice system, adding that prison administration is central to ensuring safe custody of inmates, preventing crime, reforming offenders and facilitating their social reintegration.
He emphasised that building a transparent, accountable, non-discriminatory and justice-based prison administration largely depends on the integrity and professionalism of prison guards.
He hoped that the newly trained guards would shoulder this responsibility with honesty, efficiency and professionalism, guided by a sense of patriotism.
The home adviser also issued a strong warning against corruption, calling it one of the biggest enemies of the state.
"Corruption does not only cause economic damage; it erodes state institutions from within and destroys public trust," he said.
He stated that any prison official who serves personal interests, greed or political benefits not only violates the law but also weakens the foundations of the state.
"Prison personnel are not protectors of any vested group. They are public servants paid with taxpayers' money. Public welfare must be their sole commitment," he said.
After observing the parade, the adviser distributed awards among women prison guards for outstanding performance in training.
