Dhaka:Drug abuse is reaching epidemic levels in Bangladesh, prompting the government to adopt a zero-tolerance policy and plan the establishment of 125 new police stations nationwide to strengthen crime control, according to State Minister for Primary and Mass Education Bobby Hajjaj.
According to United News of Bangladesh, Hajjaj highlighted the gravity of the drug abuse issue and its connection to crime during a shadow parliament debate titled 'Social movement is more effective than political commitment in controlling drugs.' The event was organized by Debate for Democracy at the Bangladesh Film Development Corporation in the capital.
Hajjaj emphasized that individuals involved in drug trafficking and criminal activities have no political identity and assured that the government is vigilant in preventing the exploitation of political identities for undue advantages. He stated there is no political interference in efforts to control drugs.
To combat drug abuse, juvenile gangs, and other crimes, police and SRB patrols are being intensified. The government is also planning to establish 125 new police stations across the country.
Hajjaj pointed out that residents of Mohammadpur Bihari camp are living in inhumane conditions, where various crimes, including drug-related offences, are occurring. The government is taking steps to rehabilitate the camp's residents.
He concluded by stressing the importance of complementing government initiatives to control drugs with social movements for effective prevention. The debate session was presided over by Debate for Democracy Chairman Hasan Ahmed Chowdhury Kiran.