Home Affairs Adviser Lieutenant General (Retd) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury has remarked that the majority of issues plaguing the prison system can be resolved through the eradication of bribery and corruption.
The adviser made this statement during a meeting with prison officials at the Department of Prisons in Bakshibazar, Dhaka, where he was present as the chief guest on Monday (9 September).
He emphasised that the student movement against inequality was not solely driven by quota issues, but was also fuelled by the rampant corruption, bribery, and the rising cost of living.
“Bribery cannot continue. It must be stopped at all costs. There is no alternative to this,” he asserted.
Calling for prisons to be transformed into true correctional facilities, Jahangir Alam Chowdhury urged for improvements in the quality of food provided to both prison guards and inmates.
He also highlighted the need to enhance the skills of prison staff through proper training.
During his speech, he issued necessary instructions to ensure the maintenance of personal dossiers, discipline, and welfare for prison employees.
Addressing the prison officials, the adviser said, “Ensuring prison security is your primary responsibility. Restore your honour by refusing to engage in bribery. When an individual accepts bribes, it not only tarnishes their reputation but also damages the standing of the institution.”
The adviser also took the opportunity to listen to various demands and concerns raised by the prison officials and staff.
Inspector General of Prisons, Brigadier General Syed Md Motaher Hossain, and other senior officials of the Department of Prisons attended the meeting.
