Kamrul Hasan : There is no alternative to sports in preventing drug abuse and building a healthy, aware, and skilled generation, said Rafiquddin Bhuiya (Habu), former Organizing Secretary of the Manikganj District BNP and a member of the district BNP Convener Committee. He emphasized that families, communities, and political leaders must work together to protect young people from the devastating effects of drugs. Encouraging youth to participate in sports and cultural activities, he said, can serve as an effective social deterrent against drug addiction.
He made these remarks as the chief guest at the prize-giving ceremony following the final match of the Harunar Rashid Khan Munna Memorial Football Tournament, organized by Malancha Sporting Club, at the local Eidgah Ground in Manikganj Municipality on Friday (June 19).
Habu Bhuiya said sports are not merely a source of entertainment; they play a vital role in physical and mental development, discipline, leadership, and the cultivation of social values. Expanding sports activities and encouraging greater youth participation, he added, is essential to building a drug-free society.
He further stated that under the leadership of BNP Chairman and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, various initiatives are being undertaken to foster the talent and creativity of young people. He also mentioned that efforts are underway to revive the "Notun Kuri" (New Buds) programme, originally introduced by the late President Ziaur Rahman, as part of this broader vision for youth development.
He also claimed that, under the guidance of Afroza Khanam Rita, Member of Parliament for Manikganj-3 and Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism, importance is being given to engaging young people in sports and other constructive activities.
Habu Bhuiya stressed that there would be no compromise with those involved in drug trafficking, drug abuse, or the spread of narcotics. He called for bringing all offenders to justice and ensuring exemplary punishment under the law.
Referring to the recent anti-drug demonstrations held in Manikganj, he said the united participation of people from all walks of life demonstrates that public awareness against drugs is now stronger than ever before.
He added that sports, education, and cultural activities are indispensable for strengthening this social movement.
The was presided over by Md. Zahirul Islam, President of World BNP, and moderated by prominent businessman Shamsul Islam.
Among those present৷ Advocate Shahiduzzaman Nazmul, Former Secretary for Volunteer Affairs of the Manikganj District BNP and Additional Public Prosecutor (Additional P.P.),
were businessmen and social workers Md. Rezaul Karim, Md. Sakhawat Hossain, Toufiq Ahmed Faruk, Saiful Islam, a member of the District Jubo Dal Convener Committee, Volunteer Dal leader Mobarak Hossain, along with leaders and activists of the BNP and its affiliated organizations, local dignitaries, and a large number of sports enthusiasts.
In the tournament final, Padma XI defeated Dhaleshwari XI by 2–0 to win the championship title. At the end of the match, the chief guest distributed trophies and prizes among the champions and runners-up.