MAILBOX

Plastic pollution

The whole world on one hand is trying its level best to curb plastic pollution while on the other hand, using and dumping it mindlessly. While solid plastics only(!) pollutes the environment, microbeads are the latest threat to nature, especially for humans. Products which have microbeads include soaps, toothpaste, facewash, scrubs and some cosmetic products. These beads don't dissolve in water nor do they decompose and eventually make their way inside fish and other aquatic creatures. As we are on the top of the food chain, we too end up with microbeads inside our bodies. It is a silent killer as it accumulates slowly inside our bodies and can potentially be fatal. Developed countries have largely banned products with microbeads by now, whereas in our country people are not even aware of what it is. Responsible authorities should take necessary steps to spread awareness about itand try their level best to curb these synthetic polymer particles before it creates havoc.

Rafid Alam

Mohammadpur, Dhaka

Is the solution extrajudicial killing?

According to the law, everybody is equal in the eyes of the law—a man is innocent until proven guilty. Even during trial, if there is any doubt in the investigation the law cannot pronounce punishment for his guilt. Unfortunately, the anti-narcotics drive that has been taken countrywide is undoubtedly extrajudicial killing. People are being killed on the basis of names listed of those involved in any narcotics dealings, directly or indirectly. It has led us to question our judicial system, as such practices are undesirable in a democratic country. More interesting is the fact that the people who have so far died are mere foot soldiers, while the big fish remain untouched, including the "godfathers" in the illicit drug business.

The process can affect innocent people, a glaring example is the councilor Ekramul's killing. According to the statement of his family, he was completely innocent and lost his life due to misinformation. It is imperative that this process stop and a vigorous investigation be undertaken to bring the masterminds and ringleaders under trial. Otherwise, the people will lose their confidence in our judicial system.

Md Abul Khaer.

Govt Saadat University College, Tangail

The policeman

It was the fifth day of Ramadan and I was on my way home from Narayanganj. I was in a hurry to join iftar with my parents on time. It was already 5:30 pm and seemed impossible to reach on time because of the heavy traffic congestion at Gulistan. Everyone on the road were getting worried and started to buy water and food for their iftar. A few minutes later, my car got stuck again at the Kakrail signal.

My car was right in front, with the policeman ahead. Only five minutes were left for the Magrib azan. There was not enough time to buy something from outside to have iftar in the car on time and I couldn't find anyone hawking on the street. As soon as the azan was heard, I noticed the policeman approaching my car. I opened the glass and was surprised to get a packet of iftar from him. I never thought he had noticed my anxiety around iftar time. I could not but thank him profusely for his cordiality. He said nothing but smiled. Later, he went back on duty and had his iftar standing. I shared the iftar with my driver and prayed for the policeman. I am left wondering why people say negative things about our police officers who serve the people.

Tasnimul Ahmed Pulak

The Aga Khan School, Dhaka