“OTT is very popular among the youth."
Anti-smoking organisation ‘Stop Tobacco Bangladesh’ recently highlighted the depiction of smoking scenes in movies featuring Shakib Khan and Siam Ahmed.
The organisation accused the stars of being complicit in promoting tobacco use under the cloak of cinematic expression.
In a poster for Toofan, Shakib is seen holding a cigarette.
Similarly, Siam Ahmed puffs on a cigarette in a poster for Jongli.
It claimed that these portrayals are orchestrated by tobacco companies to get young people into smoking.
It said: “Although there are restrictions on the showing of smoking scenes in films in Bangladesh, under the sponsorship of tobacco companies, the scenes of smoking and cigarettes by heroes are being shown and widely promoted online to drive teenagers towards addiction including smoking”.
The organisation claimed they are exploiting platforms like OTT services to perpetuate harmful smoking stereotypes and entice young audiences.
In a scathing rebuke, Stop Tobacco Bangladesh condemned the actors for allegedly misleading the future generation.
It branded those involved as enemies of society and the state.
The organisation demanded action against the violators and advocated for the outright ban of movies produced in violation of anti-smoking regulations.
“OTT is very popular among the youth.
“Cunning tobacco companies are inciting teenagers to smoke on OTTs. Some makers-artists are showing smoking scenes for their own benefit.
“Tobacco companies and their henchmen who are indulging in drugging the youth must be stopped.”
Stop Tobacco Bangladesh underscored the grave societal implications of glamorising smoking on screen.
The pervasive use of smoking scenes in movie posters and online content, circumventing regulations meant to safeguard public health, has emerged as a pressing concern.
Stop Tobacco Bangladesh called for a unified stand against the portrayal of smoking and drug use in dramas, movies, and web series.
It stressed the need for collective action to combat the insidious tactics employed by tobacco companies.
The organisation urged individuals to raise their voices in protest and safeguard their loved ones from the dangers of tobacco consumption.
“Stop depicting smoking and drug use on OTT content to save our children, siblings, and family members from deadly tobacco addiction.
“Raise a strong voice against smoking scenes in dramas, movies, and web series.”
Smoking and Use of Tobacco Products (Control) Act of 2005 outlines strict regulations to curb the depiction of tobacco use across various media.
Internet users agreed with the organisation’s stance and stressed that the law must be followed.
They called for the boycott of actors like Shakib Khan and Siam Ahmed.
A user wrote: “The law must be enforced. Only then people will understand and know. People don’t take those actions if they don’t apply.”
Loading ...