Drugs are a lethal addiction and a grave global problem. They pose a serious threat to public health, social security, and the economy. No country—developed, underdeveloped, or developing—is free from their harmful effects.
Drugs play a disgraceful role in illegal trafficking, the rise of various crimes, and the destruction of the future of the younger generation. Yet the political commitment, social awareness, and national, regional, and international cooperation required to confront the menace of drugs are scarcely visible in the world.
According to Bangladesh’s police administration, most crimes committed in the capital—including mugging, extortion, and murder—are linked to drug addiction. What is particularly alarming is that although Bangladesh is not a drug-producing country, it remains extremely vulnerable to drug addiction.
Bangladesh is situated among regions dominated by drug-producing countries: to the southeast lies the Golden Triangle—Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos—where poppy (opium) is cultivated; to the northwest is the Golden Crescent—Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Iran. As a result, the influence of the drug trade in these regions also affects Bangladesh.
Unfortunately, we have failed to exercise the level of vigilance required in this regard. Evidence of this failure is reflected in the findings of a recent national study. Conducted with funding from the Department of Narcotics Control, the study reveals that the number of drug-addicted individuals in Bangladesh currently stands at approximately 8.2 million.
Most alarming is that a large portion of this vast population is young, and the majority of them embarked on this destructive path before reaching the age of eighteen. This figure is not merely a statistic; it presents a tragic picture of the decay of the youth—often described as the backbone of the nation.
It also proves that drug addiction is not only increasing in variety but has now spread everywhere, from cities to villages. It stands as a barrier to a peaceful and orderly society and poses a serious threat to public health.
The study shows that cannabis is the most commonly consumed drug among users in the country, followed by yaba, heroin, and injectable drugs. At one time, phensedyl was a widely used drug in the country; now, newer substances are steadily taking its place. The rising trend of injectable drug use, in particular, carries a dire warning for public health.
Although the number of drug addicts is highest in the Dhaka division, this scourge is spreading rapidly in suburban and rural areas as well, which is even more concerning. The easy availability of drugs in border districts has further intensified the crisis.
Environmental influences, peer pressure, curiosity, and family discord are pushing adolescents and young people toward this darkness. It is deeply tragic that just as these tender lives should be setting their goals in life, they are instead being poisoned by the venom of drugs.
Most drug-addicted individuals suffer from severe mental and physical illnesses, and a large portion of them are deprived of proper medical treatment or rehabilitation services. Due to the lack of adequate treatment and opportunities for social reintegration, a tendency to relapse after quitting drugs is often observed.
In this situation, we believe it is essential to view the drug problem not merely through the lens of criminal law, but as a major public-health crisis. While the government must be strict in preventing drug trafficking, it must also pay greater attention to the mental health of adolescents and young people.
This scourge cannot be eradicated by law alone; it requires a broad social movement and widespread public awareness. Parents must pay closer attention to their children, and educational institutions should regularly conduct awareness programs.
If we fail to curb the spread of drugs, the future of the country will sink into deep darkness. Therefore, protecting the youth should be regarded today as a national duty.