The importance of a programme to eradicate drugs and intoxicants from the country was highlighted at an event in Colombo on Saturday. The event was organised by the National Dangerous Drugs Control Board in line with World Narcotics Day.

Ven. Ittapane Dammalnakara thero chaired the event.

Veteran Cricketer Kumar Sangakkara, speaking at the event said that they were world champions in 1996 but unfortunately Sri Lanka has become famous in terms of drugs and narcotics as well.

He also said that sports clubs always try to develop the sport and develop the sportsmen but these sports clubs earn their money for this development through the sale of alcohol.

Minister Chathura Senaratne said:

Without a social and cultural revolution through a conceptual change, I do not think that this country will become a drug and alcohol free nation not in 2020, not even in 2200. Three ethanol companies in the country belong to parliamentarians. Politicians pump money into two media organisations owned by them in the country. Remember that their sons are either in the provincial councils or the parliament, that means the country is ruined for another 100 years. ”

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