61 die in Bangladesh jail custody in first half of 2026, ASK data shows
ASK data shows that overall, under-trial prisoners accounted for 37 of the 61 reported deaths, representing more than 60% of all jail custody deaths during the six months.
At least 61 people died in jail custody across Bangladesh during the first six months of 2026, according to data compiled by Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK).
The rights organisation recorded 37 deaths among under-trial prisoners and 24 among convicted inmates between January and June this year.
Dhaka Division accounted for the highest number of deaths, with 36 cases. Of them, 17 were under-trial prisoners and 19 convicted inmates.
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Chattogram Division recorded the second-highest number of deaths at eight, including seven under-trial prisoners and one convicted inmate.
Rajshahi and Khulna each reported five deaths, with four under-trial prisoners and one convicted prisoner in each division. Barishal recorded two deaths, while Rangpur also reported two, all involving under-trial prisoners.
Sylhet recorded one death involving an under-trial prisoner, and Mymensingh reported two deaths, including one under-trial prisoner and one convicted inmate.
ASK data shows that overall, under-trial prisoners accounted for 37 of the 61 reported deaths, representing more than 60% of all jail custody deaths during the six months.
ASK said the figures were compiled from reports published in different national newspapers.
