State Minister for Social Welfare Farzana Sharmin has called for greater public awareness and enforcement of existing laws to build a tobacco-free society. Speaking on Friday at a discussion organized by Nari Moitree at the Poet Shamsur Rahman Room of Bangla Academy, she said Bangladesh has more laws than many other countries but citizens must become more conscious to respect and follow them.

Sharmin noted that despite having strict laws, including the death penalty for rape and a tobacco control law enacted in 2005, problems such as tobacco use and drug abuse persist. She emphasized that smoking and drug use lead to serious health risks, including cancer and kidney diseases, and urged young people to reject such habits.

The minister highlighted the role of families in guiding youth away from harmful behaviors and stressed that parents should raise awareness among their children. She described young people as a source of inspiration and learning for society.