DHAKA, 11 February, 2021 (TON): PM Sheikh Hasina called on the members of the Bangladesh Ansar and Village Defense Party that special attention should be given to the youth of the country ensuring that they steer clear of terrorism, militancy, and drug addiction.

Via videoconferencing from Ganabhaban on Thursday, the PM made the call during the 41^st national rally of Bangladesh Ansar and VDP.

"You (Ansar-VDP members) are also contributing to matters such as preventing child marriages, drug use, terrorism, and militancy. You are playing a special role in ensuring that the youth of our country do not get involved in such activities and you must continue doing so."

"I urge you to pay special attention so that our children do not go astray."

Bangladesh has been conducting a mass immunization drive across the country to avoid the spread of the disease, PM noted.

Addressing members of the paramilitary auxiliary forces, she said that today, we are dealing with the pandemic. I would request every member of Ansar-VDP to follow the procedures regarding the pandemic. The head of government also advised the members of the forces to follow the health and safety rules while instructing them to ensure that everyone is mindful about immunization.