The Minister of Relief and Disaster Management, Principal Asadul Habib Dulu, has reaffirmed the government’s zero-tolerance stance on drug abuse and gambling, pledging increased support for regions that maintain strict control over these illegal activities. “Areas that successfully curb drugs and gambling will receive enhanced government assistance, but no leniency or support will be offered to drug users or traffickers,” he stated firmly.
Speaking at a preparatory meeting for the annual Sindurmati Fair on Monday morning at the historic Sindurmati Pond near the Kurigram-Lalmonirhat border, Minister Dulu stressed the twin objectives of social reform and cultural development in the region.
Vision for Sindurmati Pond as a Tourist Destination
Minister Dulu outlined ambitious plans to transform Sindurmati Pond into a major tourist attraction. “I have a vision for Sindurmati Pond,” he said. “Architects have already been brought from Dhaka to design the area in a way that blends modern aesthetics with its cultural heritage.” He expressed confidence that this initiative would attract both domestic and international visitors, enhancing the area’s profile while preserving its traditional charm.
The minister emphasised that the upcoming Sindurmati Fair, scheduled for Friday, 27 March, would be free from circus performances, drugs, gambling, and other immoral activities, ensuring a safe, respectful, and culturally authentic environment for all attendees.
Building a Clean and Enlightened District
“Our goal is to develop Lalmonirhat into an enlightened and progressive district,” Minister Dulu said. He added that local authorities have already begun efforts to eliminate illegal and unethical practices, reinforcing that Bangladesh’s independence rests on equality, inclusivity, and respect for all communities.
Addressing the current state of Sindurmati Pond, he observed that unplanned construction of temples and shops had damaged the pond’s aesthetic appeal. “We will remove unauthorised structures and establish temples within a planned campus. Encroached areas will be reclaimed through government surveys,” he explained, assuring that the new structures would be both modern and visually captivating for visitors.
A Call for Collective Effort
Minister Dulu also urged local leaders and party workers to collaborate in building a society founded on equality, secularism, and humanitarian values. “Following the July movement, Bangladesh will no longer operate as it did before. Achieving the Prime Minister’s vision requires unity and coordinated action,” he said.
The event was presided over by Lalmonirhat Deputy Commissioner H.M. Rakib Haider and facilitated by Sadar Upazila Executive Officer Mononita Das. Attendees included Kurigram Deputy Commissioner Annapurna Deb Nath, Kurigram Superintendent of Police Khandakar Fazle Rabbi, Lalmonirhat Superintendent of Police Md. Asaduzzaman, Rajarhat Upazila Executive Officer Md. Al Imran, Rajarhat Police Officer-in-Charge Mamunur Rashid, Lalmonirhat Sadar Police Officer-in-Charge A. Matin, and leaders of the Sindurmati Puja Celebration Committee. Thousands of local residents also gathered to witness the address.
Sindurmati Fair 2026: Key Information
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | Sindurmati Fair 2026 |
| Date | Friday, 27 March |
| Location | Sindurmati Pond, Kurigram-Lalmonirhat border |
| Key Policy | Strict prohibition of drugs, gambling, and circus acts |
| Development Plans | Pond beautification, modern temple construction, removal of unauthorised structures |
| Government Support | Priority assistance for areas maintaining law and ethical order |
| Leadership Vision | Build an enlightened, secular, and humane society |
Minister Dulu’s address reflects the government’s determination to combine social reform with cultural preservation and tourism development, aiming to foster safer, cleaner, and more vibrant communities across Lalmonirhat and Kurigram districts.