Controversial Display Message Sparks Outrage at Department of Narcotics Control Office
A digital signboard at the Department of Narcotics Control (DNC) office in Gendaria South, Dhaka, known for displaying anti-drug slogans 24/7, unexpectedly displayed the message “Chhatra League will return to its dangerous form” on January 12 at midnight. The sudden appearance of this alarming statement caused a local uproar, with people gathering at the office and attempting to break through the main gate.
Sub-Inspector Md. Abdur Kadir of Gendaria Police Station arrived at the scene to manage the situation, followed by senior DNC officials. The officials calmed the locals, immediately turned off the display, and assured further investigation.
On Monday, January 13, the Officer-in-Charge of Gendaria Police Station, Md. Abu Shahed Khan, confirmed that police have filed a General Diary (GD) to maintain peace, while DNC officials have also initiated a GD regarding the incident.
According to the DNC, the incident has caused significant unrest within the department. While DNC Director General Khondkar Mostafizur Rahman did not respond to inquiries, Additional DIG Tanvir Momtaz, Director of Operations and Intelligence, stated, “We learned about the matter on Monday afternoon. An investigation is underway to determine how the message ‘Chhatra League will return to its dangerous form’ appeared on the display.”
Deputy Director Md. Manzurul Islam of the South Gendaria office mentioned that the display board was turned off immediately, and no footage was available. However, the newly attached USB drive may contain the message. The incident has been formally reported to the DNC headquarters, which plans to form an investigation committee.
Law enforcement and DNC sources revealed that the office remains secured at night with locked gates and stationed guards. Two guards also control access to the roof, where the digital board is located, and hold the keys to the area. It is suspected that internal collaboration may have enabled the unauthorized replacement of the USB drive. Authorities are probing whether individuals linked to political factions, particularly those aiming to tarnish the government’s image, were involved.
The incident has fueled speculation about existing syndicates within the DNC. Allegations have surfaced against top officials, including the Director General, accusing them of forming self-serving groups and perpetuating irregularities within the department.
This is not the first instance of controversial messages appearing on government office signboards. Similar occurrences have been reported at Kamalapur Station, Khulna Railway Station, and other locations across the country, with digital boards displaying slogans linked to Chhatra League or the ruling Awami League. For example, on January 11, the digital board at the Alamdanga Upazila Election Commission Office in Chuadanga displayed “Bangladesh Awami League.” Similar incidents have previously occurred in Noakhali and Feni.
The investigation into these incidents is ongoing.
