Prisoners preparing improved iftar, sehri during Ramadan in Ctg jail

Improved iftar and sehri meals are being prepared by inmates themselves at Chattogram Central Jail during the holy month of Ramadan, under the supervision of prison authorities.

Fasting prisoners are cooking for fellow inmates inside the jail kitchen, with officials closely monitoring the process to ensure food quality and hygiene. While the regular daily schedule includes three meals with only one considered substantial, Ramadan arrangements now provide enhanced meals at night and during sehri, in addition to iftar.

Authorities said special attention is being given to maintaining nutritional standards so that inmates observing the fast can remain healthy. Separate cooking arrangements have been made for those fasting to ensure religious practices are observed properly.

The jail currently houses around 6,400 inmates, about 6,000 of whom are Muslims. Officials described the timely distribution of quality iftar and sehri to this large number of fasting inmates as a key responsibility.

According to prison data, 800 inmates are convicted prisoners and 216 are on death row.

The iftar menu features traditional items such as chickpeas, puffed rice, onion fritters, dates, jilapi, bananas and sharbat. Fresh, hot meals are served at night and during sehri, including vegetables, lentils and rotational portions of fish, meat or eggs.

Jailer Syed Shah Sharif said the administration is ensuring close oversight so inmates can observe Ramadan with dignity, adding that the menu has been upgraded with greater variety at iftar and two improved meals daily compared to regular times.