Local people and students and teachers of different institutions formed a human chain in front of deputy commissioner’s office yesterday protesting gambling in the name of raffle draw. Under the banner of Sachetan Narailbasi, they gathered in front of the DC office at about 11 am and staged demonstration.
Freedom fighters Sharif Humayun Kabir, SA Matin, district committee secretary of Workers Party Nazrul Islam, Sadar upazila vice chairman Swapna Sen, Mohila Awami League secretary Afroza Khanom, Awami League leaders Khandakar Masud Hasan, Khandakar Munsur Billah and journalist Sathi Talukder addressed the gathering, among others. The speakers warned the administration of tougher movements if the gambling is not stopped immediately.  Deputy Commissioner of Narail Helal Mahmud Sharif reassured the protesters to consider their demand.
Local people alleged that since 12th October an ‘Industry and Commerce Fair’ has been launched on the Narail Government Victoria College ground. Gambling is going at the fair in the name of raffle draw. The fair authority has been tempting the poor and working class people with lucrative offers. Police and civil administration banned the raffle draw after two nights in the face of public protest. But for unknown reasons the administration allowed it again on October 20.