Fairs to be banned from stadiums: State Minister Aminul

State Minister for Youth and Sports Md. Aminul Haque has announced that fairs will no longer be permitted at stadiums across Bangladesh.

He made the statement while speaking to reporters on Wednesday after the first session of the final day of the DC Conference, held at Osmani Memorial Auditorium in the capital.

The session involved the Ministry of Social Welfare, the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs and the Ministry of Youth and Sports.

Responding to concerns about sports activities being disrupted by fairs at district-level playgrounds, Aminul said the government has already taken a firm stance. “The ‘Notun Kuri Sports’ programme is currently underway in district stadiums across all 64 districts. 

Previously, permissions were often granted for fairs, but since I took charge, none have been approved. We will not allow stadiums to be used for fairs in the future,” he said.

Addressing a question on plans by the two city corporations to rehabilitate hawkers on playgrounds, he said joint inspections have already been conducted involving city authorities, ministers, and relevant officials. Grounds deemed suitable for sports will not be used for such purposes, he added, noting that further discussions could be held if necessary.

The State Minister also highlighted an ongoing initiative to renovate and restore district stadiums, sports complexes and swimming facilities nationwide to strengthen grassroots sports development.

He said the broader goal is to ensure better coordination to engage youth at the grassroots level, connect future generations and create employment opportunities.

Speaking about the “Notun Kuri Sports” initiative, Aminul expressed optimism about launching a second phase following the completion of the first. 

He added that sustained efforts from district to upazila and union levels could bring meaningful improvements in family, social and national spheres in the coming years.

SH