Dhaka: Health professionals today demanded immediate passage of the proposed amendments to the Tobacco Control Act and called for a boycott of meetings with tobacco companies during the amendment process.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, at a solidarity event organised by Dhaka Ahsania Mission in front of the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban, speakers emphasized that tobacco use results in over 161,000 premature deaths annually in Bangladesh and significantly contributes to non-communicable diseases.
Iqbal Masud, Director of Health and WASH Sector of the Mission, stressed the urgent need for amending the law to safeguard public health and protect future generations. Dr. Naila Parveen, Assistant Director (Medical Services), outlined key proposed amendments, which include banning smoking zones, tobacco displays, corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities, and loose sales, alongside enhancing pictorial health warnings on packaging.
Speakers also criticized the planned September 23 meeting between the National Board of Revenue (NBR) and tobacco companies, labeling it a breach of Article 5.3 of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC), to which Bangladesh is a signatory. They urged the government to fully adhere to the FCTC and prioritize public health over the interests of the tobacco industry.