KHULNA, Nov 23, 2024 (BSS) – Leaders of Zia Cricket Tournament Conducting Committee today alleged that the country’s stadiums were turned into sanctuaries for drug addicts during the past Awami League regime.

The stadiums of the country had been turned into drug sanctuaries during the past regime and now efforts are underway to bring back the past glory of stadiums by organizing regular events there, they added.

They made the remarks while addressing a press conference at the Khulna District Sports Association Auditorium here.  BNP’s Central Student Affairs Secretary Rakibul Islam Bakul addressed the press conference ahead of Zia Cricket Tournament begins tomorrow.

Convener of the Tournament Committee Rafiqul Islam Babu, Member Secretary Debbroto Paul, ex-Cricketer Mehrab Hossain Opi and Member Secretary of city unit BNP Shafiqul Alam Tuhuin were present at the press conference.

Addressing the media, Rakibul Islam Bakul said the fascist Awami League government has given drugs to the youths of the country instead of ball and bats.

 They also turned the educational institutions into sanctuaries for drug addicts.
The BNP leader vowed for making Khulna a drug free society through organizing different sport events for the youths.

Referring to the tournament, he said national team players will participate in this tournament and through the tournament the youth team will use their talent.
He, however, said that BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman gave priority to sports and asked to encourage the youths towards sports.
He mentioned that the Zia Cricket tournament will be held at 10 divisions across the country and Khulna’s tournament will begin tomorrow at the Khulna District Stadium.