Disaster Management and Relief Minister Asadul Habib Dulu, MP, speaks at the Khuniagachh SC High School grounds in Lalmonirhat. Photo: BSS

RANGPUR, Sept 12, 2026 (BSS) - Disaster Management and Relief Asadul Habib Dulu, MP, has said that strict legal measures will be enforced alongside raising social awareness to combat drugs, gambling and crimes involving adolescents and youths. 
 
"Everyone must step away from illegal activities. No leniency will be shown to drug dealers. We will be compelled to enforce strict laws if necessary," he said.
 
He said this on Saturday while speaking as the chief guest at a distribution event held at the Khuniagachh SC High School grounds under Sadar upazila in Lalmonirhat district, a PID press release said here this afternoon. 
 
The event aimed to empower women, improve the quality of sports, and build an "Alokita Lalmonirhat" (Enlightened Lalmonirhat) through the distribution of sewing machines, sports equipment and relief materials. 
 
The Minister noted that an anti-drug campaign has been underway in 
Lalmonirhat for nearly two months. Several cases have already been filed, and 
many individuals have been brought to justice. 
 
Regarding online gambling, he observed that while gambling previously took 
place in specific locations, it is now being conducted from the comfort of 
one's home via mobile phones and online platforms. 
 
"This trend is causing financial ruin and addiction, particularly among the 
youth. Therefore, effective measures must be taken and social awareness 
should be raised to curb this harmful practice," he said.
 
Urging for the assurance of sports opportunities for children, the minister 
said, "We want children in every area to have the chance to play. Through 
sports, they will grow up healthy and well-adjusted." 
 
He called upon families, society, public representatives, and the 
administration to work unitedly to prevent drugs, online gambling, and other 
social crimes. 
 
Lalmonirhat Deputy Commissioner Md Rashedul Haque Prodhan, District Council 
Administrator AKM Mominul Haque, and Sadar Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) 
Mononita Das addressed the event as special guests.
 
Government officials, local leaders of BNP and its affiliated organisations, 
teachers, students, guardians, people from various professions and 
journalists were present, among others, at the event.