Tangail Correspondent:

Biri workers formed human chain at the district press club in Tangail on Wednesay, demanding stricter tobacco control legislation to protect public health and advance country’s tobacco-free vision.

Development Organization of Rural Poor-DORP organised the demonstration which united labour leaders, youth representatives, journalists and civil society members all over the district.

Tangail Regional Biri Workers’ Union President Nazmul Haque alongside General Secretary Shah Alam Miah and union member Joymon Bibi, highlighted the harsh realities of tobacco and its effects.

“This remains a low-wage, hazardous occupation,” speakers emphasised, noting that despite declining national demand for biri cigarettes, countless workers, particularly women and children, depend on this dangerous livelihood due to limited alternatives.

Workers face severe health complications from prolonged tobacco exposure, yet the industry continues exploiting marginalised communities under employment pretences.

Speakers called for immediate action to strengthen tobacco control laws, eliminate child labour exploitation, and establish sustainable income alternatives.

Six key proposals were submitted to Tangail Deputy Commissioner in a formal memorandum, based on WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control guidelines and Health Services Division draft amendments.

These included removing designated smoking areas from public spaces and transport, banning tobacco product displays at sales points, prohibiting tobacco company CSR activities, protecting youth from e-cigarette harm, completely banning loose tobacco sales, and increasing graphic health warnings from 50% to 90% on packaging.

Labour leaders urged swift amendment passage for public health benefits and improved worker conditions. Deputy Commissioner expressed solidarity, assuring support for strengthening tobacco control legislation.