The meeting presided by Advocate Z I Khan, Chairman, Human Rights Committee, Bangladesh Bar Council and speeches given by Advocate Abdul Baset Mozumder, Vice-Chairman, Bangladesh Bar Council; Advocate Yousuf Hossain Humayun, President, Supreme Court Bar Association; Advocate Abdul Motin Khasru-MP, former Law Minister; Advocate S M Rezaul Karim, Chairman, Finance Committee and member of Bangladesh Bar Council. The program was moderated by Syeda Anonna Rahman, Program Manager, WBB Trust.

In the discussion, speakers said TC law formulation is a significant initiative taken by the govt. Even through govt. took the initiative for the sake of public health but tobacco companies are engaged in trying to influence policy makers and govt. officials using deceptive strategies for their benefit. Bangladesh Bar Council has important contribution in anti-tobacco movement and drafting the law. This contribution has to be sustained for public interest. They urged not to be confused on tobacco companies propaganda about the tax increase because the treatment cost is far higher than the tax earned from tobacco products. Priority should be given on public health instead of tax earning while formulating policies. They also said all kinds of interaction with tobacco company has to be transparent and accountable. And a joint initiative is need for tobacco control from all sectors. Also need to stop these companies malicious intention under the CSR activities.