- Professor Dr. ArupRatan Choudhury
Bangladesh has completed 54 glorious years since its victory in 1971. For centuries, the people of this golden land endured exploitation from the British rulers to the oppressive Pakistani regime. The greed of the East India Company, the political deprivation, and the brutal repression by West Pakistan are all written in the pages of history. Yet history also proves that those who misuse power and rule unjustly inevitably face downfall. The human desire for freedom is eternal; that truth found its supreme expression in the Liberation War of Bangladesh. The Pakistani rulers never imagined that their collapse was inevitable. But the heroic sons of this soil fought with unmatched courage against a fully armed occupying force, ultimately securing a historic victory.
Our beloved green homeland now stands on the path toward the golden jubilee of victory and, eventually, the centenary of independence. Much of this journey has unfolded before my own eyes. Over these decades, Bangladesh has crossed many steep challenges to reach where it stands today. Millions of patriotic citizens dream of a brighter, stronger Bangladesh this collective hope inspires and guides us forward.
In the early years of independence, Bangladesh was dismissed as a “bottomless basket,” crippled by famine, scarcity, and mismanagement. Yet within just half a century, this very nation has risen as a global example of development. Infrastructure has improved remarkably; GDP and per capita income have shown positive growth. Bangladesh has made extraordinary progress in reducing maternal and child mortality and in controlling infectious diseases achievements widely recognised internationally. At the same time, non-communicable diseases and unhealthy lifestyle patterns have emerged as new challenges, which we can overcome with strong policies and dedicated implementation.
The true strength behind Bangladesh’s achievements is its people farmers, workers, service-holders, health professionals, expatriates, entrepreneurs, and every segment of society. Their labour, sacrifice, and love for the nation form the firm foundation of progress. A state that prioritises public welfare is ultimately the state that achieves sustainable development. When policies centre on the safety and well-being of future generations, a nation reaches the peak of success.
Around the world, almost all developed nations advanced through strong, people-centered welfare measures. Citizens are the heart of all progress. Especially for the protection of the next generation, these states remain committed to effective policymaking and implementation.
Research shows that smoking is often the gateway to addiction. The rise of smoking among adolescents is deeply worrying. Whoever comes to power must take this seriously because the future challenges will be even tougher. Multinational tobacco companies have emerged as the biggest threat. These cunning corporations, in their greed for profit, are targeting our children, teenagers, and youth. Every day, they violate laws by promoting cigarettes through attractive displays and advertisements in sales outlets.
Bangladesh is a country of youth 49% of its population belongs to the young generation, a demographic recognised by the UN as a “youth dividend.” The nation’s future development depends on transforming this youth into skilled human resources. But the current scenario is alarming: drug addiction, teenage gangs, extortion, eve-teasing, even violent crimes youth involvement is rapidly increasing. Bangladesh now has over 10 million drug users; 80% are teenagers and young adults. Among them, 43% are unemployed, and 60% are involved in some form of criminal activity. Nearly 30% engage in crime solely to finance their addiction. Unscrupulous drug dealers are exploiting this vulnerability.
Adding to the danger is the spread of e-cigarettesthe latest death trap. Companies like BAT are secretly pushing these products into the market, especially around universities to attract young people. Research from Japan shows that e-cigarettes can be ten times more harmful than conventional cigarettes. Vapes and e-cigarettes increase the risk of stroke, heart attack, and sudden cardiac death. Tobacco and drug addiction are damaging the brain, liver, kidneys, and overall health of young users.
Bangladesh is already witnessing rising tobacco consumption, leading to over 161,000 deaths every year. Yet tobacco companies keep trying to expand their market under different names. This is a direct threat to our future generations.
The Appellate Division of the Supreme Court, in its 2016 verdict (Civil Appeal No. 204 205/2001), clearly directed that no new tobacco company should be approved, and existing companies should gradually shift to other industries. However, on 27 April 2025, Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority (BEZA) approved a project for “Philip Morris Bangladesh Limited” to produce nicotine pouches an extremely harmful decision for public health.
Nicotine pouches contain high levels of addictive nicotine and come in various flavours to attract youth. The World Health Organization does not recognise them as nicotine-replacement therapy. Several countries, including Belgium, Russia, the Netherlands, and France, have already banned their production and marketing.
While the world is strengthening protections for its future generations, we are moving backward. The conspiracy of multinational tobacco companies poses a serious threat to the freedom earned at the cost of 3 million martyrs. Supporting these companies means actively harming our own country.
Many young people today do not know that during the Liberation War, the “Swadhin Bangla Betar Kendra” functioned as a sector of the resistance movement. Its songs, news broadcasts, and programmes like Chorompotro inspired freedom fighters and civilians alike, giving them hope and determination. The artists and creators of Swadhin Bangla Betar Kendra are remembered as “sound warriors” they may not have held rifles, but their voices and words were weapons of liberation.
To truly honour our victory, we must build a strong and capable young generation. To preserve the glory of independence, youth must understand the meaning of victory. We must protect them from the aggression of tobacco, drugs, and harmful influences. This is our responsibility to the heroes of the nation.
Let us therefore join hands, regardless of religion, race, political affiliation, or social identity. Let us work collectively for a healthy, safe, and prosperous Bangladesh.
On this Victory Day, 16 December, let this be our solemn pledge.
Author: Heroic Freedom Fighter Professor Dr. ArupRatan Choudhury, Recipient of National Award – EKUSHE PODOK, Visiting Professor, Dental Surgery Department, BIRDEM General Hospital, Co-coordinator, Ibrahim Medical College Dental Unit, Founder President, MANAS (Association for the Prevention of Drug Abuse) Member-National Drug, Control Advisory Board & National Tobacco Control Task Force Bangladesh.