Israfil Khasru -File Photo

CHATTOGRAM, August 23, 2026 (BSS) - Israfil Khasru, Chairman of the BCB Finance Committee and President of Friends Club, has emphasized the necessity of separating sports from politics. 

He made the remarks while speaking as the chief guest at an event marking the 46th founding anniversary of the Friends Club in the city on Saturday. 

Israfil urged collective efforts to restore the previous glory of Chattogram's sports venues. He advocated for the expansion of fields, infrastructure, and facilities to enhance sports development, as well as the revival of various leagues, including cricket, football, and hockey. 

He highlighted the importance of justice, tolerance, and accountability within sports venues, asserting that players deserve proper respect. He expressed confidence that with a strategic approach over the next 5 to 10 years, Chattogram could evolve into an exemplary sports ecosystem. 

Regarding the Chattogram District Stadium, he said there were talks with the Finance Minister and the State Minister for Sports for not designating the sports venues for all types of events. 

Mohammad Nasir Uddin chaired the event while former adviser Faruk-e-Azam Bir Pratik, CJKS Club Association advisor Hafizur Rahman, General Secretary Syed Shahabuddin Shamim, along with sports organizers and former athletes among others were present on the occasion.