Member of Parliament for Satkhira-2 constituency and Member of Parliamentary Committee on Chittagong Hill Tracts Mir Mushtaque Ahmed Robi said he is determined to play a positive role in amending the existing tobacco control laws to protect public health.
He made the comment during a courtesy call on a delegation of Dhaka Ahsania Mission Tobacco Control Project at Nam Bhaban in Dhaka on Monday.
He said, “A person who smokes is not only harming himself but also harms the people around him. In order to save the next generation from the harm of this passive smoking, necessary amendments have to be made in the law along with raising public awareness.
Md Mukhlesur Rahman, Assistant Director, Dhaka Ahsania Mission, said that the existing law, is a hindrance to the control of tobacco. Emerging tobacco products, such as e-cigarettes, are not banned, nor are imports and sales regulated or banned. In addition, most countries with restrictions do not have the opportunity to buy a single stick of cigarette. However, there is no obligation in our country. Legal obligations are needed in this matter.
The delegation led by the Assistant Director of Dhaka Ahsania Mission included Media Manager Rezaur Rahman Rizvi, Program Officer Sharmin Akter Rini and Adot Rahman Emon. The delegation briefed the parliament member about the various activities of the Dhaka Ahsania Mission on Tobacco Control.
The delegation sought the support of parliament member Mir Mushtaque Ahmed Robi, for the proposal to amend the necessary laws and increase the price of tobacco products by raising the tobacco tax. The MP thanked the delegation for their activities and assured necessary cooperation.
