Govt adopts zero tolerance against drug-related activities: State minister

The government has adopted a 'zero tolerance' policy against drug-related activities and will not spare anyone directly or indirectly involved in the drug trade, Road Transport and Railways State Minister Habibur Rashid said today (31 August).

He made the remarks while addressing a district law and order committee meeting at the conference room of the Narayanganj deputy commissioner's office this afternoon.

He said drug elimination cannot be treated as a routine task and must be tackled socially, politically and administratively.

The government has tightened drug-related laws so that those involved in drug activities cannot exploit legal loopholes, he said.

"The government is working to enact a law providing the maximum punishment for drug dealers," the state minister said.

He called for coordinated efforts to eradicate drugs and ensure that those involved in the trade are brought to justice.

Speaking about past crimes in Narayanganj, Habibur Rashid said murders, acts of terrorism, torture and repression committed in the district must be properly investigated.

"Criminals must understand that there is no opportunity to escape after committing wrongdoing," he said.

He also called for legal action against those responsible for past murder cases that remain unresolved.

On gas and water shortages, the state minister said the government is taking various initiatives to resolve the problems faced by residents.

He said some people are attempting to take the law into their own hands and embarrass the government and administration.

"The government is alert to such activities and taking immediate legal action whenever any untoward situation arises," he said.

Habibur Rashid also said upgrading Narayanganj to a special-category district or metropolitan city has become a demand of people across the district.