Discussion and leaflets in Pallabi to curb the menace of online gambling

To make the younger generation aware of the dangers of online gambling and keep them away from gambling addiction, the Pallabi Thana branch of Bashundhara Shubho Sangho held a discussion meeting and leaflet distribution programme in Pallabi in the capital. At the programme held on Friday, speakers discussed the social, family, mental and financial harms of online gambling.

Speakers said the easy availability of online gambling and the lure of earning a lot of money in a short time are pushing a section of young people towards this dangerous addiction. As a result, many are suffering financial loss as well as debt, mental depression and family unrest.

In the discussion, speakers said that because of the easy availability of technology, it is now possible to join various online gambling platforms from home using a mobile phone and the internet. Young people are being lured through various temptations and advertisements. What at first seems like entertainment or an easy way to earn money can at some point turn into a terrible addiction.

Speakers noted that online gambling can damage a young person's education, career, social relationships and future plans.

They added that the impact of online gambling is not limited to one person. After losing money in gambling, many borrow from family and relatives, resort to lies and face the risk of getting involved in various criminal activities.

Speakers said a joint effort by families, educational institutions, social organisations and aware citizens is needed to protect young people from this situation. They also stressed involving young people in sports, cultural activities, reading books and voluntary work.

The programme was conducted and coordinated by Tahmid Arefin Sajid, a member of the central committee of Bashundhara Shubho Sangho and president of the Pallabi Thana branch. Also present were businessman Hasanuzzaman (Subir), Md. Iram, work and planning secretary of the Pallabi Thana branch, Kh. Rashedul Islam Rohan, social welfare secretary, senior members Muntasir Afnan and Shahriar Sami, Sidra Saom, Safwan Haque Farid, Md. Emon Hossain, Ashiqur Rahman (Ashiq), Solaiman Rahman Mamun, Md. Hamim Hossain and other members and well-wishers of the branch.

After the discussion, the members present shared their views on the harmful effects of online gambling. Awareness leaflets were then distributed among the public. The leaflets carried various awareness messages about the risks of online gambling, its financial and social harm, and staying away from such addiction.

Participants pledged to work on creating awareness against online gambling at personal, family and social levels. They believe that increasing moral values, responsible use of technology and healthy entertainment among young people can play a positive role in curbing the spread of online gambling.

In his closing speech, Tahmid Arefin Sajid said there is no alternative to creating awareness to protect young society from harmful addictions like online gambling. The Pallabi Thana branch of Bashundhara Shubho Sangho will continue such awareness programmes for the welfare of society in the future, and remains committed to bringing positive change to society and standing beside people through new initiatives.