Drug abuse among Bangladeshi youth is a growing crisis. An estimated 2.5 million people are addicted, 80% of whom are between the ages of 15 and 30. The average age of addicts is around 22, and students are particularly vulnerable to this problem, leading to declining academic performance and higher dropout rates. Addiction to drugs leads to family disintegration, social isolation, and increased crime, posing a significant threat to the country's social fabric and future.
The Narcotics Control Act, 2018 emerged as a legislative replacement for outdated laws to strengthen Bangladesh's anti-drug efforts. In response to the increase in drug addiction, especially among young people, the law aims to control the production, trafficking, and use of narcotics. The law provides for tougher penalties, redefines drug categories, and expands law enforcement powers. The legal parameters encompass prevention, prosecution, and rehabilitation measures-illustrating an integrated approach to protecting both public health and national security interests.
The Act establishes severe classifications for drugs, such as yaba, heroin, and cannabis. It imposes harsh penalties, including the death penalty or life imprisonment for trafficking large quantities. The law mandates drug testing, authorizes the seizure of property belonging to drug offenders, and grants law enforcement expanded powers of search and arrest.
Law enforcement agencies such as the police, the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), and the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) are instrumental in enforcing the Narcotics Control Act, 2018. They conduct search operations, monitor trafficking routes, and arrest drug traffickers and users-particularly in high-risk areas and border regions. The RAB conducts large-scale operations against yaba smuggling, while the BGB ensures the security of entry points along the Myanmar and Indian borders. These agencies also collaborate with intelligence units, seize illicit drugs, and work with communities to raise awareness and ensure safer neighborhoods.
The Bangladeshi government has implemented several programs to educate youth about the risks of drug abuse. As of August 2023, more than 31,000 five-member anti-drug committees have been established in educational institutions nationwide to educate students about the harmful effects of drugs. Collaborations with organizations such as PROSHIKA and Mission Ahsania have resulted in campaigns to encourage healthy lifestyles and drug-free communities. Additionally, youth-led forums such as the Stamford Anti-Drug Forum are actively involved in university-based awareness programs.
Bangladesh offers various rehabilitation centers that address drug addiction, combining medical care, counseling, and reintegration programs. Notable facilities include the Ahsania Mission centers in Gazipur and Jashore, which offer detoxification, psychotherapy, family counseling, and recreational activities. BARACA provides treatment, harm reduction, and shelters for vulnerable populations. AMAR Home in Dhaka and Empathy emphasize comprehensive rehabilitation by providing structured daily routines and psychological support. Despite these initiatives, barriers such as limited access in rural areas and social stigma persist, hampering comprehensive rehabilitation nationwide.
In 2025, Bangladesh has stepped up its efforts to combat drug use among young people through educational initiatives. Nearly 31,080 anti-drug committees have been established in high schools, universities, and colleges across the country to educate students about the risks of narcotics. Since March 2024, the Directorate of Secondary and Higher Education has mandated daily anti-drug speeches in all educational institutions, delivered after the national anthem, to raise awareness among students. These actions aim to promote a drug-free environment and instill preventive awareness among young people.
Youth express varied perspectives about the 2018 Narcotics Control Act. While some welcome its goal of combating drug use, others express concerns about its implementation. According to a 2024 survey conducted by the Bangladesh Youth Leadership Center, 73.6% of young people feel more comfortable expressing their opinions than before, indicating increased civic engagement. However, concerns remain about the possible misapplication of the law and its impact on individual freedoms. A balanced approach that combines strict enforcement with rehabilitation and education initiatives is favored by many young people.
The Narcotics Control Act of 2018 has been criticized for its potential for arbitrary arrests and alleged abuses by law enforcement. Human rights organizations report cases where suspects are arrested without proper investigation or access to a lawyer. There are also concerns about the severity of the penalties provided by the law, which are frequently imposed without guaranteeing a fair trial. Critics argue that while strict measures are important, the lack of sufficient legal protections could lead to violations of fundamental rights and have an unfair impact on innocent or vulnerable groups.
NGOs and civil society play an important role in Bangladesh's fight against drug abuse by promoting prevention, awareness, and rehabilitation. Organizations like Ahsania Mission, BARACA, and PROSHIKA implement awareness programs, campaigns, and treatment centers. They also involve communities-especially youth-in educational and advocacy initiatives. Their rehabilitation and community intervention services complement government actions, helping to establish a more inclusive and sustainable response to the drug crisis.
Implementation of the Narcotics Control Act in Bangladesh faces several challenges. Corruption within law enforcement can lead to selective enforcement or protection of drug networks. Resource constraints hamper consistent surveillance, especially in remote areas. Furthermore, legal loopholes and insufficient coordination between agencies reduce the overall effectiveness of the law. These problems erode confidence in the system and allow drug trafficking and abuse to persist despite strict legislative measures.
To improve the Narcotics Control Act and better protect youth, experts suggest increasing transparency and accountability within law enforcement, enhancing funding for rehabilitation and mental health services, and closing legal loopholes. Expanding outreach in educational institutions and communities can further strengthen prevention. Collaboration between the government, NGOs, and international partners is crucial to adopt a comprehensive approach that addresses the root causes of drug addiction.
The Narcotics Control Act is transforming Bangladesh's youth by promoting awareness, enforcing tough penalties, and supporting rehabilitation. While challenges remain, its comprehensive approach-combining legal action, education, and community participation-offers hope for a drug-free generation. Continued reform and collaboration are essential to preserve the lives of youth and build a healthier, more resilient society.
The writer is an LLB student, Department of Law, World University of Bangladesh
