Govt adopts 'zero tolerance' policy on smoking, drug abuse

The government is pursuing a "zero tolerance" policy to protect young people and the public from the harmful effects of smoking and drug abuse, Health and Family Welfare Minister Sardar Md Sakhawat Hossain told parliament today (7 September).

The government plans to strengthen public awareness campaigns, law enforcement, addiction treatment and rehabilitation, while expanding anti-drug programmes in educational institutions, he said.

The minister made the remarks in response to a question from Narsingdi-5 MP Md Ashraf Uddin during the question-answer session, chaired by Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmad.

According to the minister, the government has adopted specific policies and implementation plans to curb smoking and tobacco use and prevent drug abuse.

Awareness campaigns on the harmful effects of smoking and drug use are regularly conducted among school, college and university students, as well as the general public.

Electronic, print and digital media, along with social media platforms, are being used to disseminate the messages, he said.

Under the Smoking and Tobacco Products Usage (Control) Act and the Narcotics Control Act, smoking is prohibited in public places and on public transport.

Law enforcement agencies and mobile courts regularly conduct drives against violations, with offenders facing fines and other penalties.

The minister said the law also prohibits the direct and indirect advertising, promotion and sponsorship of tobacco products.

On treatment and rehabilitation, Sakhawat said specialised drug addiction treatment services are available at government hospitals, including the National Institute of Mental Health.

The Department of Social Services and the Department of Narcotics Control jointly support and monitor private drug addiction treatment and rehabilitation centres, he added.

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the Department of Narcotics Control and the Ministry of Education are also working together to establish anti-drug clubs in educational institutions and expand counselling services.

He said that efforts are also under way to strengthen legal and infrastructural capacity.