Bangladesh prisons to introduce video calls for inmates

The Bangladesh Prisons Directorate is introducing a video call facility to allow inmates to communicate with their families. A pilot project has already been implemented at Munshiganj District Jail, and the service is expected to be expanded nationwide soon. Under the new regulations, inmates will be permitted a 10-minute video call once a week, provided they adhere to specific rules and privacy protocols.

In addition to communication improvements, the government is implementing various rehabilitation and modernization initiatives. These include sports, cultural programs, religious education, and mental health counseling. Vocational training programs are also active, such as soap production at Kashimpur Central Jail 2 and automated bread production at Dhaka Central Jail, aimed at preparing inmates for life after release.

To improve healthcare, plans are underway to construct a central prison hospital in Keraniganj and deploy 55 diploma nurses to enhance medical services. Other administrative updates include the installation of a mineral drinking water plant at Kashimpur Central Jail 2, the introduction of drug testing machines to prevent narcotics entry, and reforestation efforts in Sylhet, Kishoreganj, and Khulna.