227 prisoners die in jails in two years, raising growing concerns

New discussions have emerged following the revelation that 227 prisoners have died in various jails across the country over the last two years. While prison authorities claim that most of these deaths were caused by heart disease or cardiac arrest, human rights organizations emphasize the urgent need to focus on medical services, mental health, and the overall prison environment.

Inspector General of Prisons (IG Prisons) Brigadier General Syed Md. Motaher Hossain stated that cardiac arrest is responsible for most of the deaths. He explained that many drug addicts suffer from physical and psychological withdrawal complications after entering prison due to the lack of drugs. Additionally, failing to adapt to the prison environment leads many to suffer from mental stress and depression, which can increase the risk of heart disease. He also highlighted the shortage of doctors in prisons as a major challenge.

Human Rights Cultural Foundation (MSF) reported that 227 jail inmates and 30 individuals in police custody died between August 5, 2024, and July 6, 2026. Among those who died in prison were 40 leaders and activists of the Awami League.

On the other hand, Ain o Salish Centre (ASK) stated that according to their documented data, 190 prisoners died between August 2024 and June 2026. During the same period, they also recorded deaths allegedly caused by torture following arrest. However, their report did not mention the political identity of the deceased.

According to statistics from the Department of Prisons, a total of 342 prisoners died from 2024 to July 2026. Out of these, 189 died in 2024, 136 in 2025, and 17 up to July 2026. In comparison, 232 prisoners died in jail in 2023.

Assistant Inspector General (AIG) of Police Headquarters A H M Shahadat Hossain stated that every incident of death in police custody is investigated, and a "zero tolerance" policy is followed regarding such events. He added that legal action is taken against any officer if negligence is proven.

Human rights activist Nur Khan Liton expressed the view that visible progress has not yet been made in reducing custodial deaths. He claimed that the actual number of deaths might be higher than the published statistics. According to human rights organizations, the number of prisoner deaths can be significantly reduced by recruiting adequate doctors, providing improved medical care and mental health support, and ensuring a humane environment in prisons.