Alarming rise of alleged drug trade and abuse at Rajshahi University (RU) has turned the campus into a haven for drug dealers and addicts, especially during the long summer holidays.
Summer vacation at the university started on May 28 and ends on June 31.
The drug dealers, mostly outsiders from adjacent areas openly peddle illicit drugs on campus because there are no restrictions on people entering the campus.
Several areas on the campus, including the spot where there is a mass grave, near the Fine Arts department, the Shabash Bangladesh Chhattar, playground of the Shahid Habibur Rahman Hall, Folklore Chhattar, and the Zuberee Bhaban have become the meeting ground for drug addicts when the sun sets, but during the university’s summer break they gather during the day as well.
Illegal drugs including Phensidyl, heroin, marijuana as well as fermented liquor and rectified spirits are openly sold at these spots where a large number of outsiders have gather regularly to indulge in drug, said witnesses.
“Every time the university vacations start, the deserted campus turns into a safe haven for drug addicts and a large number of RU students also joins them,” said a student seeking anonymity.
Snatching and extortion incidences on campus rise as a consequence, said a faculty of RU.
Expressing concern over the situation, several teachers and officials of RU have asked authorities and law enforcers to take immediate steps and put a stop to the on going drug trade and abuse on campus.
Proctor of the university Professor M Tariqul Hassan told the Dhaka Tribune they have started monitoring the campus to stop the drug trading and abuse, and urged law enforcers to take stern action against the drug dealers.
