Restrictions on students outdoors after dusk in Feni: Leafletting, miking spark mixed reactions

The Feni district administration has issued a directive restraining students from hanging out at tea stalls and loitering unnecessarily after dusk in a bid to curb teen gang activities and crime. While miking was conducted across various areas of the district to build public awareness for implementing this decision, the language used in the announcements has triggered controversy and drawn mixed reactions from various quarters.

According to the district administration, the initiative was taken in line with a decision by the district law and order committee to ensure discipline, public safety, and an education-friendly environment. The administration and law enforcement agencies are working on the ground, urging students to avoid unnecessary hangouts and focus on their studies instead.

The decision was finalized following discussions on the spread of teen gangs at a district law and order committee meeting on July 12. Subsequently, the District Information Office conducted public announcements via miking in the town, calling upon students not to loiter outside, hang out at tea stalls, or remain on school and college campuses after dusk.

However, human rights activists and civil society representatives criticized the language used in the miking. They argued that such restrictions on students' movement could conflict with personal freedom and human rights.

On the other hand, a section of teacher leaders believe that discouraging students from staying outside unnecessarily is necessary to control teen gangs. However, they suggested prioritizing verification, involving parents, and counseling before taking any legal action.

Regarding the matter, Feni Deputy Commissioner Monira Haque stated that there was some exaggeration in the language used during the miking. She clarified that it was not intended to announce punitive measures under the law, but the primary goal is to prevent students from engaging in unnecessary hangouts at tea stalls, parks, and other places after dusk, and to make parents more aware.