‘Libraries in every ward to remove drugs, gangs’
City Desk :
Dhaka-4 BNP nominee Tanveer Ahmed Robin, member secretary of Dhaka Metropolitan South BNP, promises to build libraries in every ward of the constituency, which spans Shyampur and Kadamtali and has over 3.5 lakh voters and nearly 10 lakh residents.
A first-time contestant, Robin brings experience as his father’s chief election agent in the 2008 and 2018 national elections and the 2020 by-election. Campaigning on the ground, he has encountered spontaneous public support, with voters eager to exercise their franchise.
The area grapples with absent playgrounds, community centres, and accessible healthcare, alongside rampant drug abuse, teen gangs, extortion, and waterlogging. On drugs, Robin said he has consulted authorities and gathered resident input through local meetings, leading to arrests of major dealers. “My policy will be zero tolerance for drug traffickers and teen gangs,” he affirmed.
To tackle teen gangs, Robin’s flagship plan is ward-level libraries offering training, education, and cultural activities for all ages and genders. “This will bridge generational gaps, strengthen community bonds, and help youth stay away from drugs and gangs while focusing on studies and creative pursuits,” he explained.
Waterlogging stems from poor coordination, Robin noted, calling for joint action by South City Corporation, Narayanganj City Corporation, Dhaka WASA, Water Development Board, and Roads and Highways Department. Pre-monsoon drain and canal clearing would bring major relief, he added.
Roads pose another challenge: while main arteries have improved, alleys lack paving and drainage, causing year-round water accumulation that damages homes, mosques, and businesses. Robin urged building proper drainage and correcting past planning errors for enduring fixes.
Attacks on his campaign raise security concerns, which Robin views as election sabotage. He urged the government to bolster administration and launch preemptive joint operations against outlawed groups operating under party cover.
On broader election conspiracies, Robin expressed confidence in BNP’s preparedness to ensure a credible poll upholding voter rights, public expectations, and a transparent, accountable government delivering safety and economic freedom.
Addressing nationwide allegations of extortion and land grabs against BNP leaders, Robin dismissed them as false narratives from Jamaat and NCP. “Extortion is not limited to any party,” he said. “If a BNP member errs, the party publicly acknowledges it and takes strict action. BNP has even filed cases itself, which other parties never do.”
