Chittagong Central Jail Overcrowded Threefold Amid Land Crisis for New Prison

Authorities seek land for new facility as inmates face inhumane conditions; over 6,000 prisoners held in a jail built for 1,853

Chittagong, Bangladesh — The Chittagong Central Jail is currently holding more than three times its intended capacity, forcing thousands of inmates to endure severe overcrowding and inhumane conditions, according to local reports. Built to accommodate 1,853 inmates, the jail is housing an average of 6,000 prisoners daily.

Despite repeated appeals by the Prisons Department to ease this crisis by constructing a new prison, no land has yet been allocated, reported Prothom Alo, a leading Bangladeshi daily. Prison authorities warn that without urgent action, the situation could further deteriorate.

“Currently, the Chittagong Central Jail is operating at more than three times its capacity. Despite repeated requests, we are yet to receive land for a new facility,” said Mohammad Motahar Hossain, Director General of the Prisons Department. He added that the proposed facility could function as a correctional centre, providing training in fishing and garment industries to help rehabilitate inmates.

The Chittagong district administration has claimed that land in Jangal Salimpur, initially earmarked for the new prison, remains under illegal occupation and cannot be handed over until it is recovered.

Among the current inmates is Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) leader and Chittagong City Corporation Mayor Shahadat Hossain, jailed in connection with a political case. Speaking to the media from within the prison, he described the conditions as “inhumane.”

“There is unbearable pressure on inmates. Instead of 30-40 people, more than 100 are crammed into limited spaces. The lack of adequate toilets and living space causes immense suffering. A new prison must be built to ensure basic rights and healthcare,” he said.

Data from the Department of Prisons in October 2024 revealed that Bangladesh’s 68 prisons have a total capacity of 42,887 inmates but are housing 53,831 — highlighting a broader nationwide problem.

Jyotirmoy Barua, a human rights activist and senior Supreme Court lawyer, called the situation a violation of fundamental rights. “A person is presumed innocent until proven guilty. The state must guarantee humane treatment. The government should urgently implement temporary relief measures, especially for undertrial detainees,” he said.