Dhaka:Ishraque Hossain, the lawmaker for Dhaka-6, has called for a nationwide effort to build social resistance against drugs. He emphasized the need for the involvement of public representatives, teachers, parents, social and religious leaders, alongside law enforcement agencies, in this initiative.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Ishraque made this appeal while speaking as the chief guest at a seminar titled 'Drug Control Challenges and the Way Forward', organized by Debate for Democracy at CIRDAP. He highlighted the destructive impact of drugs on society and the nation, stressing the importance of taking pragmatic measures to protect the younger generation, rather than relying solely on discussions and awareness campaigns.
Ishraque revealed that Bangladesh has an estimated 8.3 million illegal drug users, with many becoming involved before the age of 25. He emphasized the necessity of protecting young people from drugs to harness the country's demographic dividend. To combat the drug problem, he called for dismantling drug supply chains, strengthening treatment and rehabilitation facilities, and ensuring adequate resources and technological capacity for drug control agencies.
He also addressed allegations of political patronage and involvement of some law enforcement personnel in drug trafficking, asserting that those involved must face justice, irrespective of their political identity or position. Sharing his experiences in Dhaka-6, he expressed concern over drug sales and consumption in areas like Gandaria and Dhupkhola, particularly around educational institutions, and mentioned initiatives taken to address these issues.
Ishraque stressed the importance of family awareness, urging parents to monitor their children's activities and social associations, noting that drug prevention must begin at home. The seminar also featured Debate for Democracy Chairman Hassan Ahamed Chowdhury Kiron, who presented the keynote paper, and was addressed by other notable figures including Professor Dr. M A Mohit Kamal, Director General of the Department of Narcotics Control Hasan Maruf, and Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University Professor Dr. Tajul Islam. Students from Eden Mohila College and State University of Bangladesh participated in the event.