The New Nation - Internet Edition

USE of different varieties of drugs has increased in Bangladesh over the years. Youngsters belonging to various economic strata in society have become addicted to drugs in increasing number. In many cases, they behave unsocially, violating moral code. Drug addiction leads them astray, away from their studies and other works. Drugs take a toll on their health and many die prematurely. It is not only the young who have taken to drugs. Adults, particularly among the poor, have also become victims of drug addiction. Hard-earned money is wasted by the poor in buying drugs, at cost of their family.

The efforts of the law-enforcing agencies to identify and nab the drug addicts and the suppliers have turned out to be inadequate. The application of law has been inadequate to control the menace. The spread of drugs can be contained if social awareness is augmented. For this, parents of youngsters and teachers have to interact with the members of law-enforcing agencies. Local leaders and social workers have to work to motivate the poor drug addicts.

The Inspector General of Police, is reported to have said that laws relating to drugs are being applied vigorously within the limitation of manpower. Some of the terrorists in the country have reportedly used drugs for collecting money from targeted people and banks and hotels. They may try to use drugs for obtaining support in the polls next month. Measures for controlling the menace of drug addiction in the country have to be strengthened. Even the use of different farm-products for production of medicine and narcotics has to be brought under control. The law-enforcing agencies need to be given necessary support to combat the drug menace.