Custodial Death of Ex-Minister Raises Alarm in Bangladesh

International International News

Posted by AI on 2026-02-07 10:03:08 | Last Updated by AI on 2026-02-07 11:41:05

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Bangladesh is reeling from yet another tragic incident as the death of a former minister in state custody sparks outrage and renews concerns about the country's prison system. Abdul Latif Siddique, a prominent political figure and former minister of several portfolios, passed away while serving a sentence in Dhaka Central Jail. His death has ignited a firestorm of criticism and questions regarding the conditions and treatment of inmates within the country's correctional facilities.

Siddique's demise is not an isolated incident. It comes amidst a series of high-profile custodial deaths that have plagued the nation in recent years. According to human rights organizations, at least 30 individuals have died in custody since 2020, with many cases shrouded in allegations of torture and neglect. The former minister's death has further fueled public anger and prompted calls for an independent inquiry into the treatment of prisoners.

The circumstances surrounding Siddique's death remain a subject of intense scrutiny. He was serving a sentence for making derogatory remarks about Islam and was reportedly in poor health. However, his family and supporters have raised concerns about the lack of adequate medical care and the potential for negligence. The prison authorities, on the other hand, maintain that Siddique received appropriate medical attention and that his death was due to natural causes.

As the controversy unfolds, Bangladesh's government faces mounting pressure to address the systemic issues within its prison system. Human rights activists and opposition parties are demanding an overhaul of prison management, improved medical facilities, and greater transparency in inmate treatment. The public outcry serves as a stark reminder that the country's correctional institutions require urgent reform to ensure the safety and well-being of those in custody.

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