Rights activists call for comprehensive reform in prisons

Lawyers and human rights activists have called for comprehensive prison reforms in Bangladesh to ensure humane living conditions for inmates. 

In a workshop held today (19 October) at Bakshibazar Prison Convention Hall, they urged the government to modernise the country's jail code and penal code.

The workshop, jointly organised by the Law Reporters Forum (LRF) and the Directorate of Prisons, underscored the need to abolish outdated prison rules enacted during the British era and replace them with new regulations. 

The discussion titled "Prison Reforms: Reality and Actions," was held in association with the criminal and constitutional law chamber "Law Lab" where participants also emphasised changing the government's mindset and approach to prison management. 

In his keynote address, Supreme Court lawyer Shishir Manir emphasised the need to modernise the country's prison system. 

He stated that prisons should primarily serve as correctional facilities, focusing on reforming criminals rather than merely incarcerating them.

Monir highlighted the outdated nature of the current prison system, which is largely governed by laws from the colonial era. He urged for amendments to the Prisons Code of 1860, the Prisons Act, and the Prisoners Act to address the shortcomings of the current system.

The lawyer noted that Bangladesh's prison system has grown significantly since its inception in 1971, expanding from 3 central jails, 13 district jails, and 43 sub-jails to the current 13 central prisons and 55 district prisons.

Manir criticised the lack of provisions in the jail code for many modern-day issues and the failure to implement existing benefits for prisoners. 

He called for urgent reforms to address these deficiencies, citing examples from other countries.

The lawyer emphasised the importance of integrating technology, human rights, and rehabilitation programmes with the existing laws and prison codes to create a more modern and effective prison system. 

He condemned the practice of keeping accused individuals in solitary confinement and condemned cells until the Supreme Court confirms a death sentence, deeming it a violation of law.

Addressing as the chief guest, Industries Adviser Adilur Rahman Khan emphasised the need for collective action to improve the prison system.

"We are all one family," he said, highlighting the interconnectedness of prisons, courts, and the broader social system. 

He emphasised that individual efforts alone would be insufficient and called for a united approach to prison reform.

He urged participants to return from the workshop with a commitment to work together to improve prisons and reduce the number of people who are mistreated within the legal system. 

The adviser also called for timely and just court judgments.