The International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking has been observed in Nilphamari through various programs. Organised by the district office of the Department of Narcotics Control (DNC), the events included a rally, a human chain, a discussion meeting, and a prize distribution ceremony. On Friday around 11:00 AM, Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Nayiruzzaman formally inaugurated the day's programs by releasing balloons on the premises of the Deputy Commissioner's office. Following the inauguration, a human chain was formed on the office premises, with people from various walks of life taking part. Afterward, a colorful rally paraded through the main streets of the town before converging at the conference room of the Deputy Commissioner's office for the discussion meeting.
Chaired by Anisur Rahman Khan, Deputy Director of the district DNC office, the discussion meeting was addressed by Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Nayiruzzaman as the chief guest. Additional Superintendent of Police Mohammad Mohsin and District Council Administrator Advocate Mizanur Rahman Chowdhury Shamim were present as special guests. Moderated by Scouter Maruf Khan, the welcome speech was delivered by Sadar Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Mubasshira Amatullah. Among others, former General Secretary of Nilphamari Press Club Nur Alam, President of Nilphamari Journalists' Union Yasin Mohammad Sithun, and guardian Sekendar Ali also spoke on the occasion.
At the event, Motibul Islam from the Hajipara area of Tupamari Union under Sadar Upazila, who has returned to a normal life after quitting drugs, highlighted the evil effects and horrors of narcotics based on his past experiences and urged everyone to stand united against drugs. Following the discussion meeting, the guests distributed certificates and crests among the 21 student winners of the drawing and essay competitions organized to mark the day. During the meeting, Anisur Rahman Khan, Deputy Director of the district DNC office, presented a picture of the anti-drug operations in the district, stating that a total of 718 drives had been conducted across the district from January to June 25 this year. A total of 339 cases were filed and 345 individuals were accused during these drives. He also mentioned that a massive quantity of narcotics, including 13,930 pieces of Yaba tablets and 38 kg of hemp, was seized during the operations.
