Photo: BSS

RAJSHAHI, July 11, 2026 (BSS) - To protect the young generation from the devastating grip of drugs, which is spreading day by day, people from all walks of life in the city united yesterday to build a coordinated resistance.

In cooperation with local law enforcement agencies, they have called for social unity to eradicate drugs from the area and raise public awareness.

On Friday afternoon in this connection, a massive anti-drug rally was organized in the Hazrapukur Dabtala area in the city, centered around the theme: "Every child is ours; let's say no to drugs to secure their future."

The program was attended by local men and women, teenagers and youths, social, political, and religious leaders, teachers, and a large number of students. 

The chief guest at the event was Golam Rabbani Sheikh, Deputy Commissioner of Police at Rajshahi Metropolitan Police (RMP). 

In his speech, Moniruzzaman Sharif Monir, the former ward councilor of Rajshahi City Corporation and the inaugurator and chair of the rally, said drugs are spreading throughout the ward because of a handful of dishonest people. 

Though these drug dealers are very few in number, they trap young people while living luxurious lives themselves. 

Meanwhile, children are becoming mentally unstable and roaming the streets. 

He added, "We who stand against drugs are far greater in number. So let's build legal resistance against these destroyers of society. There will be no compromise in eradicating drugs. If anyone is caught with drugs-even if it's my own brother or nephew-I will request the police administration to arrest them first." 

The participation and speeches of local women received special emphasis at the rally. Stressing the importance of family awareness in eliminating drugs, women leaders said that drug users must be identified within families and given proper counseling. 

At the same time, they expressed strong anger and complaints about eve-teasing in the area caused by drug users. 

They sought sincere cooperation from the local administration and community leaders to fight this social menace and crime. 

Among others, speaking at the event were Mainul Islam, former teacher at Shiroil Colony High School; Dr. Abdul Matin, former teacher; Monirul Islam Jony, Member Secretary of Chandrima Thana BNP; Monir Islam and Officer-in-Charge (OC) of Chandrima Thana.

Speakers at the rally pledged to transform this fight against drugs into a social movement-regardless of party or opinion-to ensure a better future for their children.