Serious allegations of physical torture and harassment have surfaced against authorities at Gazipur’s Kashimpur Central Women’s Prison, where several detained female political activists are being held. According to statements from colleagues of the victims and members of various political parties on social media, these women are reportedly being implicated in new cases even after securing bail and are subjected to torture if they protest.
Complainants allege that Kashimpur Women’s Prison has effectively become a place of fear for female activists of opposition parties. They claim that although women secure bail in court, just as they are about to be released, the authorities “show arrest” in a new case, preventing their release. This cycle reportedly continues for days or even months at a time.
Recently, one female prisoner who attempted to speak with the jail superintendent about the harassment was allegedly physically assaulted by prison guards. Following this, when other political prisoners protested, the situation escalated. Allegations suggest that under the cover of night, prison guards, with the participation of ordinary inmates, carried out widespread physical assaults on the protesting political prisoners.
In the aftermath, and citing the need to restore order, prison authorities transferred several women to other prisons nationwide. On Saturday morning, 8 to 10 prisoners — including Benzir Hossain Nishi and Tamanna Jesmin Riva — were sent to Rajshahi Central Prison, while another 8 to 10 prisoners were transferred to Sylhet Central Prison.
The incident has sparked outrage on social media, with many calling for a proper investigation into the treatment of these female political prisoners. Activists are demanding accountability, punishment for those responsible, and the release of all unjustly detained political prisoners.
Prison authorities have not issued an official statement yet. Their response will be included in the report once available.
