Religious Adviser denounces 'distorted narrative' over Ctg jail visit

Religious Affairs Adviser A.F.M. Khalid Hossain has strongly condemned what he describes as a “deliberate distortion” of facts surrounding his recent visit to Chattogram Central Jail. He claimed that unauthorized photos from the visit were circulated with political intent, leading to misleading interpretations in the public domain.

In a post published Friday on his verified Facebook profile, titled "My Position Against Deliberate Misinformation," the Adviser clarified the purpose of his visit and addressed the controversy that followed.

“The visit was a government-endorsed initiative aimed at expanding religious and moral education among the country’s 70,000 inmates,” he wrote. “It was part of a broader humanitarian effort to help rehabilitate prisoners into society.”

According to Hossain, the visit was fully coordinated with relevant authorities, including the Inspector General of Prisons, the Divisional Commissioner, the Deputy Commissioner, and other officials. He was accompanied by senior prison personnel, including the DIG (Prisons) and Deputy Jailer.

He toured various sections of the facility, including the kitchen, hospital, male, female, and child wards, as well as the VIP ward and execution area. He emphasized that his time in the VIP section lasted only two to three minutes, and that he was accompanied by officials throughout.

“No personal cameras were used,” he noted. “Some photos were taken by a prison officer, which were later leaked and misused. This was an unauthorized act and is being dealt with by the prison authorities.”

The Adviser alleged that the controversy was fueled by a “defeated political syndicate” seeking to create division and undermine public trust.

“These smear campaigns are part of a continued effort by certain groups to obstruct the government’s mission for peace and progress,” he stated. “Their goal is to weaken the unity between the government and the people — but they will not succeed.”

He urged the public and media to avoid falling prey to misinformation and to focus on the broader goal of social reform and prisoner rehabilitation.

Concluding his statement, Hossain reaffirmed his commitment to truth, justice, and national welfare.

“Our efforts are grounded in transparency and driven by compassion. We will not allow room for misunderstanding or political manipulation. The truth will prevail.”