Zero Tolerance Policy Against Drugs, Extortion and Terrorism to Be Enforced: State Minister

Mymensingh, March 9: State Minister for Information and Broadcasting Yasser Khan Chowdhury has said the government will strictly implement a zero-tolerance policy against drugs, extortion and terrorism as part of its commitment to the slogan “Bangladesh First.”

He expressed hope that effective enforcement of this policy would help transform Mymensingh into a model district.

The state minister made the remarks while speaking as the chief guest at a meeting of the district law and order committee held at the conference room of the deputy commissioner’s office in Mymensingh on Monday. The meeting was organized by the district administration.

Addressing the gathering, he said traffic congestion in the city cannot be blamed solely on auto-rickshaws or CNG-run vehicles, even though road capacity in some areas remains limited. According to him, coordinated management and better planning could significantly reduce traffic problems in the city.

He pointed out that traffic movement is often disrupted because ambulances are parked in long queues outside designated parking areas near hospitals. In addition, roadside shops occupying parts of the roads have narrowed traffic lanes in several places, worsening congestion. Proper regulation of these issues could help improve the situation, he added.

Speaking about the fuel supply, the state minister said the global situation remains unstable due to ongoing conflicts in different parts of the world. Despite this, he assured that Bangladesh currently has adequate reserves of petrol and diesel, which will continue to be supplied gradually.

However, he noted that complaints have been received about some fuel stations remaining closed even when adequate fuel is available. There have also been reports of vehicles refueling multiple times, which may indicate attempts to stockpile fuel. He said these issues should be closely monitored.

Referring to the rise of juvenile gangs, he described it as a growing social problem across the country, second only to drug abuse in severity. To address the issue, he emphasized the need for greater awareness among parents. He also suggested that educational institutions could use audio-visual materials to educate students about the risks and consequences.

The minister further said the government has already launched several social awareness initiatives. Video messages highlighting various government programs—including family cards and farmer cards—are being broadcast through the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and will also be promoted at the district level.

On the issue of narcotics, he stressed the importance of identifying the sources and networks responsible for the spread of drugs. He also called for intensified drives to recover illegal firearms in Mymensingh district.

Speaking as a special guest, State Minister for Disaster Management and Relief M. Iqbal Hossain said maintaining stable law and order requires coordinated efforts from the administration, law enforcement agencies and the public. He urged all stakeholders to play a responsible role in ensuring security in the district.

The meeting, chaired by Deputy Commissioner Md. Saifur Rahman, also discussed various issues including the overall law and order situation, market management, and strategies to curb drugs and other crimes in the district.

Members of parliament Abu Wahab Akand Wahid, Mohammad Zakir Hossain, Mohammad Aktaruzzaman Bacchu, as well as educationist Mu. Kamrul Hasan Milon, Mufti Muhammadullah, and Mohammad Salman Omar also spoke at the meeting.

The district police superintendent, civil surgeon, and representatives of Rapid Action Battalion and Border Guard Bangladesh, along with officials from different government departments and committee members, were present at the event.