Emeritus Professor Serajul Islam Choudhury calls for systemic reform of Bangladesh prison system
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Emeritus Professor Serajul Islam Choudhury has called for a fundamental shift in the nation’s criminal justice system, asserting that true reform requires addressing the socioeconomic disparities that drive crime rather than relying solely on punitive measures. Speaking via a video message at the launch of the book *Karagare Anusandhan* (Inquiry into Prisons) at the Biswa Sahitya Kendra in Dhaka on Thursday, the renowned scholar argued that the current prison system serves as a lingering relic of colonial rule, detached from the humanitarian needs of the modern era.
The 600-page volume, authored by researcher Md. Khosbor Ali and published by Pundra Prokashan, is the culmination of 14 years of rigorous study. Drawing on domestic and international archives, government documents, and scholarly journals, the book provides an exhaustive examination of the history of incarceration. Ali noted that his work traces the evolution of penal policy from the pre-colonial era through the British colonial period, exploring the development of prison administration, convict labor, judicial control, and the historical use of penal colonies like the Andamans.
Professor Choudhury praised the work for its critical analysis of the systemic flaws within the Bangladeshi prison environment. He highlighted that the book exposes pervasive issues such as corruption, physical abuse, and the commodification of prison amenities—problems that frequently go overlooked. He particularly underscored the disparity in treatment between political detainees and the general prisoner population, noting that the latter often suffers in silence. Furthermore, he commended the book for its sensitive treatment of female prisoners, who face unique challenges rooted in gender-based violence, systemic inequality, and social domination.
The event, chaired by researcher Sheikh Mohammad Fazle Akbar of Ehime University, drew significant praise from experts in law, development, and journalism. Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission Chairman Jalal Ahmed, serving as the chief guest, drew upon his own experience as a former magistrate and deputy commissioner to validate the book’s critique of the institutional environment.
Mustafiz Shafi, editor of the newspaper *Desh Rupantor*, served as the lead discussant, describing the book as an essential reference for researchers and journalists. He lamented that the state had failed to undertake such a comprehensive study itself, noting that the book now serves as a vital blueprint for any future institutional reform. Development worker Nishat Sultana also contributed to the discussion, focusing on the historical marginalization of women within the carceral system.
In his concluding remarks, author Khosbor Ali emphasized that his objective was to move beyond the conventional view of prisons as mere sites of punishment. Instead, he sought to present the institution as a lens through which to better understand the intersection of state power, social history, and human rights. The launch ceremony, which featured musical performances by Tahsina Mustari Abonti, concluded with a call for the state to utilize such research to initiate long-overdue corrections to the penal system.
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