Speakers voice concern as anti-tobacco law enforcement weakens, deaths rise

Speakers at an anti-tobacco discussion have expressed concern that the enforcement of laws against smoking and tobacco use is gradually weakening, while the number of deaths from tobacco products is rising.

The discussion, titled 'Unmasking the Allure: Combating Nicotine and Tobacco Addiction', was organised by Amra Dhumpan Nibarann Kori (ADNIK) at the National Press Club on Friday, May 1. The event was held as part of a month-long programme ahead of World No Tobacco Day on May 31 and also marked Labour Day.

ADNIK President and cardiologist Dr Hasina Banu said the death toll from tobacco products has alarmingly increased due to lax enforcement of the law. Previously, an average of one lakh people died annually from tobacco-related causes, which rose to two lakh in 2025. She called upon the prime minister and all concerned to ensure the proper enforcement of anti-tobacco laws.

Prominent lawyer and Gulshan Society President Barrister Om Sadat said that following a writ petition filed by him in 2001, the High Court ordered the cessation of tobacco advertisements in the media. Subsequently, the anti-tobacco law was enacted in 2003. He pledged to provide any legal assistance needed for the anti-tobacco movement.

Jatiya Party Secretary General Barrister Shamim Haider said the movement would gain momentum if political figures, including members of parliament, are sincere.

Speakers noted that tobacco use is comparatively higher among the country's working-class people, which is why Labour Day was chosen for the event.

TIBC Chairperson Monsur Ahmed Chowdhury, cardiologist Professor Dr Neena Islam, World Cancer Society Bangladesh President Dr Syed Humayun Kabir, and Kidney Foundation Bangladesh Chairman Professor Dr Harun Ar Rashid, among other specialists, participated in the discussion.