Rabat:The capital State Minister for Primary and Mass Education, Bobby Hajjaj, emphasized that tackling drug issues in the country requires more than just law enforcement. He highlighted the necessity of effective government policies, moral education, economic opportunities, and rehabilitation for individuals with drug dependencies.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Hajjaj made these remarks while speaking as the chief guest at a shadow-parliament debate competition titled 'Political Will and Social Movement to Control Narcotics.' The event was organized by Debate for Democracy at the Bangladesh Film Development Corporation.
Hajjaj stressed the importance of a multidimensional approach involving government, institutions, and society to halt drug trade, reduce drug-related crimes, and support the rehabilitation of drug users. He pointed out that socio-economic factors, such as lack of economic opportunities and urban migration due to climate change, contribute to youth crime and drug issues.
He also discussed the government's efforts to integrate moral education into school curricula, encouraging practical habits like cleanliness and social responsibility. Additionally, the government is focusing on enhancing the legal framework for narcotics control, strengthening law enforcement, and improving drug detection capabilities with new laboratories.
The state minister reiterated the importance of providing addicts with treatment and rehabilitation to help them reintegrate into society. He concluded that a joint effort from the government and social movements is essential to create a drug-free society.
Debate for Democracy Chairman Hasan Ahmed Chowdhury Kiron noted that drug dealers adapt to political changes to continue their activities. He expressed a desire for the younger generation to concentrate on education and technological advancements rather than falling into drug addiction.
The debate saw participation from Bangladesh University of Textiles as the treasury bench and Holy Family Red Crescent Medical College as the opposition, with the former emerging victorious. Trophies, crests, and certificates were awarded to the winning and participating teams by the chief guest.