Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs Minister Dipen Dewan spoke as the chief guest at the traditional Pajan cooking competition and a discussion. Photo: BSS

RANGAMATI, April 7, 2026 (BSS) - Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs Minister Dipen Dewan has said building a drug-free intellectual society will be a challenge for the incumbent government.

"Our youth society is the lifeline of the country. The previous fascist government has systematically pushed the youth society towards degradation," he said.
 
Dipen Dewan said Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is facing all national challenges with great determination and is giving necessary directives to this end.
 
"In the light of these directives, showing the derailed youth society the path of light and building a drug-free intellectual society will be a challenge for our government," he said.

The CHT Affairs Minister made the remarks while speaking as the chief guest at the traditional Pajan cooking competition and a discussion titled 'We want a drug-free society'.

Surjodoy Social Welfare Society's Rangamati branch arranged the meeting at Rangamati District Shilpakala Academy auditorium last night on the occasion of the CHT's traditional social festivals Biju, Sangrai, Baishu, Bishu, Sangkran, Changlan, Pata and Bihu.

In his speech, Dipen Dewan highlighted the adverse impacts of drug addiction, saying no one can show an example that the society gets any benefit from those who are addicted to drugs.
 
"Drugs do not have any benefit rather it makes a beautiful environment poisonous. Drugs not only destroy an individual, but also cripple a family and the entire society," he observed.

He urged all to remain alert against drugs to ensure a beautiful future and a healthy society.

The minister also called upon all to identify socially those involved in drug trade and cooperate with the authorities by handing them over to the law.

"Life is very precious, so love life and stay away from drugs. Your own will is enough to get rid of the deadly addiction of drugs. Let us say 'no' to drugs together and dedicate ourselves to building a merit-based and intellectual society," he said.

Stressing the importance of preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of the CHT, Dipen Dewan said the Pajan cooking competition is part of their diverse heritage.

The practice of this culture will play a helpful role in keeping the youth away from misguidance, he said.
 
At the end of the discussion, the minister distributed prizes among the winners of the traditional Pajan cooking competition.

Dr Ajay Prakash Chakma, president of Suryodoy Social Welfare Society, presided over the meeting where various professionals, prominent intellectuals and dignitaries of Rangamati district were present.