Prison security, human rights must be ensured together: Home Adviser

Home affairs adviser of the interim government Lieutenant General Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, retired, has said that in the current global context, security and human rights are complementary in prison administration. He said it is the state’s responsibility to protect the fundamental human rights of inmates and reintegrate them into society as reformed citizens.

He made the remarks on Tuesday, January 27, while speaking as the chief guest at the passing-out parade of the 63rd batch of female prison guards’ basic training course at the Prison Training Centre parade ground in Kashimpur jail campus, Gazipur.

The adviser said prisons are highly sensitive and important institutions and an integral part of the criminal justice system. Through prisons, the state ensures the safe custody of inmates, while prison administration plays a crucial role in crime control, offender reform and social rehabilitation.

He added that prison guards have a vital role in building a discrimination-free, just, transparent and accountable prison administration. Expressing optimism, he said newly trained guards, guided by patriotism, honesty, efficiency and professionalism, will play an effective role in achieving these goals.