Khulna city polls: Mayoral candidates embrace uphill battle against drugs

Mayoral candidates in the Khulna City Corporation polls have been asked what measures they would take, if elected, to address growing concerns over drug abuse in the district. The question was raised during a dialogue event titled “Citizens’ Rights” at CSS Ava Centre in Khulna town on Sunday. Democracy International organized the dialogue sponsored by USAID and UKAID under a project titled “Strengthening the Political Landscape in Bangladesh.” Six important issues were discussed at the event, and of them, drug abuse was given the most attention. Asked about his action plans to address the alarming substance addiction problems, Talukadar Abdul Khalek, the ruling Awami League-backed mayoral candidate, said if elected, he would launch a social movement against drug abuse and drug peddlers. “We need to be more sincere than exerting power to control drug abuse. I will form a committee that would be working to raise awareness among people of the problem.” His rival BNP-backed mayoral candidate Nazrul Islam Monju said if elected, he would first take action against those members of his party who are accused in cases filed over drug peddling or drug abuse. “I will assist law enforcement agencies in arresting those involved in drug peddling regardless of his or her political affiliations,” he said. “Awareness campaigns need to begin at home and then spread in society. Thus, it will gain momentum and turn into a powerful social movement.” Katie Croake, chief of party for Democracy International in Bangladesh, presided over the event, attended by eminent personalities and journalists.