Minister Urges Strict Action Against Drugs and Gambling

The Minister of Relief and Disaster Management, Principal Asadul Habib Dulu, has called for stringent measures against drug abuse and gambling, pledging enhanced government support for areas that effectively curb these illegal activities. “Areas where drugs and gambling are controlled will receive greater government assistance, but no support will be extended to drug users or traffickers,” he emphasised.

Delivering his remarks at a preparatory meeting for the traditional Sindurmati Fair on Monday morning at the historic Sindurmati Pond, located near the Kurigram-Lalmonirhat border, Minister Dulu highlighted the twin goals of social reform and cultural development.

Transforming Sindurmati Pond into a Tourist Hub
Minister Dulu outlined plans to transform the Sindurmati Pond into an attractive global tourist destination. “I have a vision for the Sindurmati Pond,” he said. “Architects have already arrived from Dhaka to design how the area can be modernised and made visually appealing.” He expressed optimism that this development would combine heritage preservation with contemporary design to draw both domestic and international visitors.

He further stressed that the upcoming Sindurmati Fair, scheduled for Friday, 27 March, will prohibit circus acts, drugs, gambling, and other immoral activities to maintain a safe and culturally respectful environment.

Commitment to a Clean and Enlightened District
“Our aim is to build Lalmonirhat as an enlightened district,” Minister Dulu said, adding that local administration has already initiated efforts to eradicate all forms of illegal and unethical practices. He underscored that Bangladesh’s independence is founded on equality, inclusivity, and respect for all communities.

Commenting on the current state of the pond, Minister Dulu noted that unplanned construction of temples and shops had compromised its beauty. “We will remove unauthorised structures and establish temples within a well-planned campus. Encroached areas will be reclaimed through government surveys,” he said, promising that the new temples would be modern and visually appealing to enhance visitors’ experiences.

Call for Collective Action
Addressing local party workers, Minister Dulu remarked, “After the July movement, Bangladesh will no longer operate as it did before. We aim to create a society based on equality, secularism, and humanitarian values. Everyone must work together to realise the Prime Minister’s vision.”

The event was presided over by Lalmonirhat Deputy Commissioner H.M. Rakib Haider and facilitated by Sadar Upazila Executive Officer Mononita Das. Other officials attending included Kurigram Deputy Commissioner Annapurna Deb Nath, Kurigram Superintendent of Police Khandakar Fazle Rabbi, Lalmonirhat Superintendent of Police Md. Asaduzzaman, Rajarhat Upazila Executive Officer Md. Al Imran, Rajarhat Police Station Officer-in-Charge Mamunur Rashid, and Lalmonirhat Sadar Police Officer-in-Charge A. Matin, alongside leaders of the Sindurmati Puja Celebration Committee. Large crowds of men and women also gathered to witness the minister’s address.

Sindurmati Fair Preparations and Safety Measures: Key Points

Minister Dulu’s address signals a firm government stance against illegal activities while promoting cultural heritage and tourism. By combining social reform with infrastructural development, the administration aims to foster safer, cleaner, and more vibrant communities in Lalmonirhat and Kurigram districts.