The gaming industry is already a multibillion dollar industry worldwide. In Bangladesh, the gaming scenario has seen a sharp progress in the last five years, with smartphones and fast internet spreading mobile gaming throughout the country. Everywhere we travel, we see people of all ages playing games on their phones, either alone or in a group.

The recent arrest of 108 youth gamers from a community centre in Chuadanga is quite bizarre. It should be understood that video gaming is an industry and an e-sport. In some developed countries, even e-sports visas are being provided. Some people are even earning their livelihoods through gaming.

As such, it is truly disheartening to discourage young gamers by arresting those only attempting to uphold the spirit of a new and thriving form of sport.

Nizamuddin, Dhaka