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shisha lounges have sprung up in residential buildings, restaurants, and cafés in elite areas of Dhaka. Despite repeated raids, they continue to operate. Some change addresses, while others run with the tacit support of certain officials. Action must be taken.”
In reply, the home minister said, “As pledged in our election manifesto, we have declared zero tolerance against gambling, online gambling, and drugs. After April 30, once the parliamentary session ends, we will conduct a nationwide coordinated drive. There is no alternative to saving our youth.”
On the issue of shisha bars, the minister blamed the Awami League era, saying that between 2009 and 2024, under the patronage of influential politicians, businessmen, and certain officials, illegal shisha bars and drug spots flourished in Dhaka’s Gulshan, Banani, Dhanmondi, Mohammadpur, Uttara, and Baridhara areas. Despite raids, they were reopened through influence. At present, the Department of Narcotics Control and police are conducting regular raids. On April 16 and 20, large quantities of shisha and equipment were seized in Gulshan and other areas, he added.
Salahuddin also said intelligence surveillance has been intensified so that no one can continue illegal businesses by changing addresses or evading law enforcement. “If evidence emerges of any individual or institution’s involvement, it will be investigated seriously and legal action will follow,” he warned.
“If any police member is found aiding such illegal businesses, strict punitive measures will be taken immediately,” he added.
Salahuddin informed the parliament that criminals are being held during raids and brought under the law. Dhaka North City Corporation is also identifying and shutting down unlicensed establishments.
He said the current government has identified drugs as a national problem in its election manifesto. Owners of illegal shisha lounges have filed five writ petitions to keep their businesses running. The DNC has appealed against High Court rulings in these cases, and the Appellate Division has vacated interim orders.
In a supplementary question, MP Farroque asked how many drug traders have been prosecuted since the present government took office. The home minister said he could provide the details after the lawmaker submits a formal notice for disclosure of specific numbers.