Shubhoraj Chakma, 60, a member of Dumdumya Union Council in Jurachari under Rangamati district, has been reportedly put under house arrest after his release from JSS captivity.
The armed members of the Jana Samhati Samiti (Santu faction) released him from captivity on 13 December on payment of a Taka 50,000 ransom, but put him under house arrest in the village of Kandebochara.
He was kidnapped from Fakirachara bazaar on 10 December for allegedly supporting UPDF.
UPDF’s Shanti Dev Chakma urged the JSS leaders to release him unconditionally, and said, “It has now become impossible for common people to lead a normal life because of the terrorists let loose by Santu Larma.”
He lambasted the government for failing to take any action against the terrorists, and said, “The apathy and indifference being shown by the authorities is tantamount to pampering the terrorists.”
He called upon the government to take measures to arrest the armed loyalists of Santu Larma and bring them to justice.
Sunday, December 19, 2010
Saturday, December 18, 2010
Santu group kidnaps 3 in Jurachari
THE armed members of the Jana Samhati Samiti (Santu faction) raided the village of Dane Jurachari under Jurachari Upazila in Rangamati district and kidnapped three UPDF supporters at gun point.
The incident took place in the wee hours today. A small group of JSS men took them from their homes.
The kidnapped villagers are Gyanendu Chakma, 35, son of Barun Chandra Chakma, Patthor Muni Chakma, 35, son of Indra Lakshyo Chakma and Kina Chan Chakma, 19, son of Lepya Chakma.
UPDF’s Shanti Dev Chakma condemned the incident and urged JSS to release them unconditionally and without harm.
Another report adds: one of the two villagers kidnapped earlier on 16 December by Santu group in Sajek has been set free.
The kidnappers gave hints that the other one, Boidyo Chakma alias Sudom, will also be released soon.
The incident took place in the wee hours today. A small group of JSS men took them from their homes.
The kidnapped villagers are Gyanendu Chakma, 35, son of Barun Chandra Chakma, Patthor Muni Chakma, 35, son of Indra Lakshyo Chakma and Kina Chan Chakma, 19, son of Lepya Chakma.
UPDF’s Shanti Dev Chakma condemned the incident and urged JSS to release them unconditionally and without harm.
Another report adds: one of the two villagers kidnapped earlier on 16 December by Santu group in Sajek has been set free.
The kidnappers gave hints that the other one, Boidyo Chakma alias Sudom, will also be released soon.
Dawn-to-dusk road blockade ends in Khagrachari
The dawn-to-dusk road blockade called by the Hill Students Council (PCP), a front organisation of the United Peoples Democratic Front, ended in Khagrachari today without major untoward incidents.
The programme was called in protest against police attacks on a peaceful conference of the PCP and indiscriminate arrest of its members on Wednesday.
Normal life in the town ground to a halt as motorized vehicles remained off the roads. No long-route buses plied in the district.
Large contingents of police personnel were deployed in many parts of the town, and sheershanews.com said the pickets beat up a pedestrian in Manikchari and pelted a micro bus with stones at Panch-mile area on Dighinala – Khagrachari road.
The PCP leaders thanked all concerned for supporting their programme and urged the government to release all its arrested members.
Meanwhile, one of the remaining arrested PCP members has been released. His name is Komendra Lal Tripura, a candidate for Secondary School Certificate exam to be held in next February.
Nine others are still in jail. All of them are students. They were refused bail when they were produced before the court of senior judicial district magistrate yesterday.
The programme was called in protest against police attacks on a peaceful conference of the PCP and indiscriminate arrest of its members on Wednesday.
Normal life in the town ground to a halt as motorized vehicles remained off the roads. No long-route buses plied in the district.
Large contingents of police personnel were deployed in many parts of the town, and sheershanews.com said the pickets beat up a pedestrian in Manikchari and pelted a micro bus with stones at Panch-mile area on Dighinala – Khagrachari road.
The PCP leaders thanked all concerned for supporting their programme and urged the government to release all its arrested members.
Meanwhile, one of the remaining arrested PCP members has been released. His name is Komendra Lal Tripura, a candidate for Secondary School Certificate exam to be held in next February.
Nine others are still in jail. All of them are students. They were refused bail when they were produced before the court of senior judicial district magistrate yesterday.
Two villagers kidnapped Santu group in Sajek
TWO Jumma villagers were kidnapped by armed members of the Jana Samhati Samiti (Santu faction) in Sajek of Rangamati district yesterday.
They were kidnapped about 6am from Majalong village No. 8. The kidnappes have been identified as Boidyo Chakma alias Sudom, 22, of village Chamenichara and Muktodhan Chakma, 25, son of Phali Chakma of village Majalong village No. 8.
A group of 22 armed men led by Niloy Chakma masterminded the abduction. The terrorists belong to Santu faction of the JSS.
The terrorists came to Sajek a few days ago, and are now staying at Bhuochari area.
They were kidnapped about 6am from Majalong village No. 8. The kidnappes have been identified as Boidyo Chakma alias Sudom, 22, of village Chamenichara and Muktodhan Chakma, 25, son of Phali Chakma of village Majalong village No. 8.
A group of 22 armed men led by Niloy Chakma masterminded the abduction. The terrorists belong to Santu faction of the JSS.
The terrorists came to Sajek a few days ago, and are now staying at Bhuochari area.
Police attack PCP activists in Khagrachari : District-wide road blockade announced
DOZENS of Hill Student’s Council (PCP) activists have been injured in Khagrachari when police attacked them with gun shots, rubber bullets, tear gas and clubs.
Police also raided Khabangpujya and arrested 40 persons including women and children. However, 25 of them were released later from Khagrachari police station.
The PCP called road blockade for 17 December in protest against the brutal police attack on their peaceful conference at Swanirbhor.
PCP Khagrachari district unit leaders said the police blocked them in front of the office of the District Council when they were trying to take out a procession at the end of their conference at 2:15pm today.
The PCP leaders then requested the police to withdraw the blockade and respect their right to take part in peaceful processions.
“Instead police tried to disperse us by resorting to baton charges, using tear gas and firing rubber bullets.” Apruchi Marma, newly elected president of PCP Khagrachari district unit, told chtnews.com.
“When they failed to disperse us, they fired live bullets at us and army was deployed” he added.
In the face of joint attacks by army and police, the PCP activists were then forced to retreat to the nearby Jumma areas -- Khabangpujya and Narnaghia.
But the army and police pursued them and arrested whomever they got hold of.
The PCP, the Hill Women’s Federation, the Democratic Youth Forum and UPDF Khagrachari district unit condemned the attack on peaceful PCP gathering by army and police and urged the government to release those arrested.
They also demanded punishment of those involved in the attack.
The 11th conference of the PCP Khagrachari unit was held today at 11:30am today at Swanirbhor.
Chaired by Shipu Chakma, vice president of PCP Khagrachari district unit, the conference was also addressed by UPDF leader Kalo Priyo Chakma, DYF leader Mithun Chakma, HWF leader Madri Chakma, PCP leaders Pronoy Chakma, Palash Chakma and Bipul Chakma.
Over one thousand PCP members and supporters participated in the conference.
A 19-member new committee for PCP Khagrachari district unit was also elected. Apruchi Marma, Umesh Chakma and Palash Chakma elected were made president, general secretary and organising secretary respectively.
Police also raided Khabangpujya and arrested 40 persons including women and children. However, 25 of them were released later from Khagrachari police station.
The PCP called road blockade for 17 December in protest against the brutal police attack on their peaceful conference at Swanirbhor.
PCP Khagrachari district unit leaders said the police blocked them in front of the office of the District Council when they were trying to take out a procession at the end of their conference at 2:15pm today.
The PCP leaders then requested the police to withdraw the blockade and respect their right to take part in peaceful processions.
“Instead police tried to disperse us by resorting to baton charges, using tear gas and firing rubber bullets.” Apruchi Marma, newly elected president of PCP Khagrachari district unit, told chtnews.com.
“When they failed to disperse us, they fired live bullets at us and army was deployed” he added.
In the face of joint attacks by army and police, the PCP activists were then forced to retreat to the nearby Jumma areas -- Khabangpujya and Narnaghia.
But the army and police pursued them and arrested whomever they got hold of.
The PCP, the Hill Women’s Federation, the Democratic Youth Forum and UPDF Khagrachari district unit condemned the attack on peaceful PCP gathering by army and police and urged the government to release those arrested.
They also demanded punishment of those involved in the attack.
The 11th conference of the PCP Khagrachari unit was held today at 11:30am today at Swanirbhor.
Chaired by Shipu Chakma, vice president of PCP Khagrachari district unit, the conference was also addressed by UPDF leader Kalo Priyo Chakma, DYF leader Mithun Chakma, HWF leader Madri Chakma, PCP leaders Pronoy Chakma, Palash Chakma and Bipul Chakma.
Over one thousand PCP members and supporters participated in the conference.
A 19-member new committee for PCP Khagrachari district unit was also elected. Apruchi Marma, Umesh Chakma and Palash Chakma elected were made president, general secretary and organising secretary respectively.
Another kidnapped by Santu group in Rangamati
ANOTHER person was kidnapped in Rangamati, according to sources.
The incident took place on 13 December when Ushayon Chakma, 26, son of Arunjoy Chakma of village Panchari under Shubholong Union in Barkal Upazila, went to Rangamati town.
A group of Jana Samhati Samiti members (Santu faction) kidnapped him from Banarupa bazaar at noon.
His family members are learnt to have contacted the JSS (Santu) leaders in Rangamati and urged them to release him.
Mr. Chakma is a former member of the United Peoples Democratic Front (UPDF). He left the party in 2008.
The incident took place on 13 December when Ushayon Chakma, 26, son of Arunjoy Chakma of village Panchari under Shubholong Union in Barkal Upazila, went to Rangamati town.
A group of Jana Samhati Samiti members (Santu faction) kidnapped him from Banarupa bazaar at noon.
His family members are learnt to have contacted the JSS (Santu) leaders in Rangamati and urged them to release him.
Mr. Chakma is a former member of the United Peoples Democratic Front (UPDF). He left the party in 2008.
UP member released from Santu Group captivity
A MEMBER of Dumdumya Union Council in Jurachari Upazila under Rangamati district, held hostage by Jana Samhati Samiti (Santu faction), has been released from captivity after a Taka 50,000 ransom was paid.
The hostage, Mr. Shubhoraj Chakma, was set free at 2pm today.
The 60-year-old was held hostage after JSS men took him from Fakirachara bazaar on 10 December, telling him that they had something to discuss with him.
The next day the miscreants demanded Taka 100,000 from his wife for his release and asked her to pay the money by 13 December.
His wife today contacted the hostage takers, who finally agreed to free him for Taka 50,000.
Mr. Chakma is an elected member of Dumdumya Union Council and a resident of Kandebochara village.
The hostage, Mr. Shubhoraj Chakma, was set free at 2pm today.
The 60-year-old was held hostage after JSS men took him from Fakirachara bazaar on 10 December, telling him that they had something to discuss with him.
The next day the miscreants demanded Taka 100,000 from his wife for his release and asked her to pay the money by 13 December.
His wife today contacted the hostage takers, who finally agreed to free him for Taka 50,000.
Mr. Chakma is an elected member of Dumdumya Union Council and a resident of Kandebochara village.
Jumma worker dies in police firing in CPEZ
ONE of those killed in police firing in Chittagong Export Processing Zone today is reportedly a Jumma worker.
His identity is yet to be known. He was seen lying on a pavement near BEPJA gate, a Jumma worker told chtnews.com on condition of anonymity.
No further details about him are available as people were not getting out of their homes for fear of arrest.
He said another Jumma was injured in the brutal police attack on demonstrating workers, who were demanding an increase in their wages.
He has been identified as Ujwal Chakma, from Dighinala. He works at a factory owned by Young One, a South Korean company.
He was admitted to Chittagong Medical College hospital with bullet injuries.
The doctors took out the bullet in his shoulder and released him.
According to sheershanews.com, at least three persons have been killed in the police action.
His identity is yet to be known. He was seen lying on a pavement near BEPJA gate, a Jumma worker told chtnews.com on condition of anonymity.
No further details about him are available as people were not getting out of their homes for fear of arrest.
He said another Jumma was injured in the brutal police attack on demonstrating workers, who were demanding an increase in their wages.
He has been identified as Ujwal Chakma, from Dighinala. He works at a factory owned by Young One, a South Korean company.
He was admitted to Chittagong Medical College hospital with bullet injuries.
The doctors took out the bullet in his shoulder and released him.
According to sheershanews.com, at least three persons have been killed in the police action.
80-year old Jumma woman raped in Dighinala
AN 80-year old Jumma woman has been raped in Dighinala, according to
bangladeshnews24x7.com.
The incident took place at Jamtoli area at 12 noon yesterday, Saturday, it said. The victim has been identified as Suro Bala Chakma.
She was on her way to visit her younger brother in the village of Sudhamoni Para when Manik, a Bengali settler, raped her.
Manik works in a teak plantation belonging to Khorshed, a wood trader. He was on his way to work when he found her alone near the bank of river Boalkhali.
When Mongol Shanti Chakma, a resident of the same area, reached near the place of occurrence, Manik tried to run away. But Chakma ran faster and grabbed him.
The Dighinala OC Md. Shahajahan said no case had been filed till 9pm yesterday.
For details, please click the following link: (the report is in Bangla) http://www.bangladeshnews24x7.com/districtnews/chittagongdivision/khagracharizilla/1260-2010-12-12-00-14-37.html
bangladeshnews24x7.com.
The incident took place at Jamtoli area at 12 noon yesterday, Saturday, it said. The victim has been identified as Suro Bala Chakma.
She was on her way to visit her younger brother in the village of Sudhamoni Para when Manik, a Bengali settler, raped her.
Manik works in a teak plantation belonging to Khorshed, a wood trader. He was on his way to work when he found her alone near the bank of river Boalkhali.
When Mongol Shanti Chakma, a resident of the same area, reached near the place of occurrence, Manik tried to run away. But Chakma ran faster and grabbed him.
The Dighinala OC Md. Shahajahan said no case had been filed till 9pm yesterday.
For details, please click the following link: (the report is in Bangla) http://www.bangladeshnews24x7.com/districtnews/chittagongdivision/khagracharizilla/1260-2010-12-12-00-14-37.html
JMC rallies against national repression in CHT
The Bangladesh Jatio Mukti Council has held demonstrations across the country against national repression on Jumma peoples in the Chittagong Hill Tracts. (photo attached)
The United Peoples Democratic Front (UPDF) is a component organisation of JMC.
Rangamati
About one thousand took part in a rally held at Sapchari, Rangamati. Chaird by Gyana Bikash Chakma, a local UPDF leader, the rally was also addressed by Mohammad Hossain Khan, joint secretary of Chittagong Unit of the Democratic Committee Against Imperialism and Fascism, Mikel Chakma, member secretary of Democratic Youth Forum and Alakesh Chakma, organiser of UPDF Rangamati district unit.
Addressing the Jumma people present at the rally, Mr. Hossain Khan said, “You are not alone in your fight. The toiling masses in the plain land are with you.”
He said the country was plagued by corruption, bribery and plunder. “We must fight against these evils.” he added.
Khagrachari
JMC Khagrachari unit staged a demonstration at Swanirbhor today with the slogan “Raise your voice against national repression in CHT”. Over one thousand participated in it.
The speakers said the Jumma nationalities had been subjected to national repression for many decades. “Human rights violations such as arbitrary arrest, torture, killings, destruction of houses, military raids and arson continue unabated.”
They said grabbing of Jumma people’s lands in the name of expansion of military camps, construction of tourist resorts and eco parks and creation of fruit gardens were continuing.
They speakers also criticized the government for killing people in the name of cross fire and for the brutal attack on the people of Rupganj that killed dozens of them.
The speakers urged the government to meet the 10-point demands, including special autonomy for the CHT region, put forward by Jatio Mukti Council at its 29-November convention against national repression.
They also demanded withdrawal of restrictions on rallies and public meetings in the CHT.
The rally was followed by a procession which marched to Chengi Square.
Dhaka
The Dhaka demonstration was held at Mukangon. JMC general secretary Faizul Hakim, JMC Dhaka unit convenor Samiul Alam Richi and PCP president Aongay Marma spoke.
Chittagong
In Chittagong JMC Chittagong chapter held a rally at Cheragi Pahar which was addressed by Advocate Bhulon Bhowmik, Amir Abbas Tapu and DYF Chittagong City unit president Ziko Marma.
Before the rally, a procession was taken out from in front of Chittagong press club at 4:30pm.
Demonstrations were also held in many other towns and cities of Bangladesh including Khulna, Barishal, Jesore, Pabna, Kushtia and Sirajganj.
DYF condemns killing of CEPZ workers
The Democratic Youth Forum, a front organisation of the United Peoples’ Democratic Front (UPDF), has condemned the killing of an unknown number of workers in police and Rab firing in Chittagong Export Processing Zone.
Ziko Marma, president of DYF Chittagong city unit, said the police and members of Rapid Action Battalion today opened fire on crowds of workers who were staging demonstrations in peaceful manner at CPEZ, demanding a wage increase.
He termed the demands of the workers just and said, “The employers continue to refuse to provide them basic minimum wages, despite that they have been making super profits.”
Mr Marma demanded fulfillment of the just demands of the workers, punishment of those police and Rab personnel responsible for the killing of the workers, adequate compensation for the families of the deceased and free medical treatment of the injured.
Ziko Marma, president of DYF Chittagong city unit, said the police and members of Rapid Action Battalion today opened fire on crowds of workers who were staging demonstrations in peaceful manner at CPEZ, demanding a wage increase.
He termed the demands of the workers just and said, “The employers continue to refuse to provide them basic minimum wages, despite that they have been making super profits.”
Mr Marma demanded fulfillment of the just demands of the workers, punishment of those police and Rab personnel responsible for the killing of the workers, adequate compensation for the families of the deceased and free medical treatment of the injured.
Kidnapped PCP leader released from JSS captivity
A HILL Students’ Council leader, kidnapped by Santu Larma faction of
the Jana Samhati Samiti a few days ago, has been released from
captivity.
The terrorists released Helen Chakma, 22, cultural secretary of the
PCP Naniachar College Unit, on 11 December on payment of a Taka 5,000
ransom.
Mr Chakma was kidnapped on 8 December from Boat Ghat (jetty) at
Banarupa in Rangamati town when he went there to visit his relatives.
He was taken to the village of Golachari in Devachari under Mogban
Union No. 2 and was tortured.
Later, his mother and a local headman negotiated his release.
PCP Naniachar Upazila unit president Bilash Chakma and PCP Naniachar
College committee president Ripon Chakma in a statement expressed joy
at his release, but condemned Santu group for his kidnapping and urged
its members to shun politics of violence and refrain from kidnapping
business.
After release, Helen Chakma returned home in the village of Komtoli in
Naniachar.
the Jana Samhati Samiti a few days ago, has been released from
captivity.
The terrorists released Helen Chakma, 22, cultural secretary of the
PCP Naniachar College Unit, on 11 December on payment of a Taka 5,000
ransom.
Mr Chakma was kidnapped on 8 December from Boat Ghat (jetty) at
Banarupa in Rangamati town when he went there to visit his relatives.
He was taken to the village of Golachari in Devachari under Mogban
Union No. 2 and was tortured.
Later, his mother and a local headman negotiated his release.
PCP Naniachar Upazila unit president Bilash Chakma and PCP Naniachar
College committee president Ripon Chakma in a statement expressed joy
at his release, but condemned Santu group for his kidnapping and urged
its members to shun politics of violence and refrain from kidnapping
business.
After release, Helen Chakma returned home in the village of Komtoli in
Naniachar.
International Human Rights Day observed in Khagrachari
JUMMA organisations have observed 62th international human rights day
with a call for the government to withdraw restrictions on rallies and
public meetings. (photograph attached)
The Hill Students Council, Hill Women’s Federation and Democratic
Youth Forum organised rallies and processions in Khagrachari to mark
the day today.
They took out a procession at 11am from Swanirbhor bazaar which
paraded different roads in Khagrachari town.
Later they held a rally at Swanirbhor with Kyola Ching Marma, vice
president of Hill Students Council (PCP), in the chair.
The rally was also addressed by Thuiko Ching Marma, organising
secretary of PCP, Konika Dewan, general secretary of HWF, Remin
Chakma, president of DYF Khagrachari unit and Mishuk Chakma, cultural
affairs secretary of HWF Khagrachari unit.
Terming the human rights situation in the CHT alarming, the speakers
said, “the army continues to incite the settlers to grab Jumma
people’s land while the government is planning to lease out thousands
of acres of land to various companies and private individuals.”
Opposing the construction of a Science and Technology University and a
medical college in Rangamati, PCP leader Thuiko Ching Marma said, “The
real aim of constructing these higher educational institutions is to
displace Jumma villagers from their hearts and homes and then flood
the area with outsiders.”
“How many minority students are there to study in these institutions?”
the speakers asked, adding, “The Jummas will hardly benefit from these
institutions.”
Konika Dewan said the CHT was under virtual military rule with
“Operation Uttorom” still in force.
“There are restrictions on rallies and public meetings, and flagrant
infringements on our democratic rights. The Jumma women continue to
face sexual abuses by army and settlers.” she said.
The speakers urged the government to stop human rights violations in
the CHT, terminate Operation Uttoron and withdraw the military from
the area, put an end to grabbing of Jumma’s lands, stop repression on
women, try all human rights offences including abduction of Kalpana
Chakma and declare the CHT as a special autonomous region.
Six villagers arrested in Kudukchari
SIX Jumma villagers have been arrested in Kudukchari under Rangamati district.
They were on their way to attend a wedding ceremony in the village of
Kudukchari Nich Para when the arrest was made.
According to sources, they were arrested by army from Dharma Ghar area
at 11am today. The army gave no reason for the arrest.
They were first taken to Kudukchari army camp and then transferred to
Naniachar zone.
The arrested have been identified as Anupom Chakma, 20, son of Bijokko
Chakma, Bikashon Chakma, 20, son of Sonamoni Chakma, Dharma Raj
Chakma, 28, son of Randalya Chakma, Alo Bikash Chakma, 32, son of
Prassanna Kumar Chakma, Laxmi Kumar Chakma, 24, son of Benga Moni
Chakma and Baghya Chakma, 23, son of Sindhu Moni Chakma.
The first three are from the village of Pudichari while last three
from Gadochara village in Kudukchari.
Shanti Dev Chakma, chief organiser of UPDF Rangamati district unit, in
a statement issued to the media has condemned the arrest and demanded
their unconditional and immediate release.
“This arrest, on International Human Rights day, is a sad commentary
on human rights situation in the Chittagong Hill Tracts.” he said.
“It is imperative that the army and settlers be withdrawn from the CHT
in order to stop human rights abuses and establish democratic rights
of the people of the area.” he further commented.
They were on their way to attend a wedding ceremony in the village of
Kudukchari Nich Para when the arrest was made.
According to sources, they were arrested by army from Dharma Ghar area
at 11am today. The army gave no reason for the arrest.
They were first taken to Kudukchari army camp and then transferred to
Naniachar zone.
The arrested have been identified as Anupom Chakma, 20, son of Bijokko
Chakma, Bikashon Chakma, 20, son of Sonamoni Chakma, Dharma Raj
Chakma, 28, son of Randalya Chakma, Alo Bikash Chakma, 32, son of
Prassanna Kumar Chakma, Laxmi Kumar Chakma, 24, son of Benga Moni
Chakma and Baghya Chakma, 23, son of Sindhu Moni Chakma.
The first three are from the village of Pudichari while last three
from Gadochara village in Kudukchari.
Shanti Dev Chakma, chief organiser of UPDF Rangamati district unit, in
a statement issued to the media has condemned the arrest and demanded
their unconditional and immediate release.
“This arrest, on International Human Rights day, is a sad commentary
on human rights situation in the Chittagong Hill Tracts.” he said.
“It is imperative that the army and settlers be withdrawn from the CHT
in order to stop human rights abuses and establish democratic rights
of the people of the area.” he further commented.
Army raids Lemuchari
THE army raided Lemuchari village in Mahalchari in an apparent attempt
to arrest those involved in orgnising a recent protest against land
grabbing in the area.
Sources said a group of army personnel from Kengelchari sub-zone
raided the village at 11am on 7 December, and looked for Shanti Ranjan
Chakma, 43, son of Ramani Kumar Chakma, Achchal Talukder, 38, son of
late Gyana Lal Talukder and Juboti Ranjan Chakma, 48, son of Dharma
Moni Chakma.
The three Jummas played a leading role in organising a mass protest on
6 December against settler attempts to grab Jumma’s lands in the area.
However, they were not available at their homes when the army
conducted the raid.
After about one hour the soldiers left the village, but soon after
another group of military intelligence personnel came and searched for
the protest leaders.
After the raid most of the protest leaders went into hiding to avoid arrest.
to arrest those involved in orgnising a recent protest against land
grabbing in the area.
Sources said a group of army personnel from Kengelchari sub-zone
raided the village at 11am on 7 December, and looked for Shanti Ranjan
Chakma, 43, son of Ramani Kumar Chakma, Achchal Talukder, 38, son of
late Gyana Lal Talukder and Juboti Ranjan Chakma, 48, son of Dharma
Moni Chakma.
The three Jummas played a leading role in organising a mass protest on
6 December against settler attempts to grab Jumma’s lands in the area.
However, they were not available at their homes when the army
conducted the raid.
After about one hour the soldiers left the village, but soon after
another group of military intelligence personnel came and searched for
the protest leaders.
After the raid most of the protest leaders went into hiding to avoid arrest.
UPDF supporter kidnapped, released later
A SUPPORTER of the United Peoples Democratic Front (UPDF) waskidnapped and later released on payment of a ransom in Chitmorom under
Kaptai Upazila in Rangamati district.
The kidnappee has been identified as Hlathui Khiang alias Shanti Babu
(35), belonging to one of the microscopic nationalities in the CHT. He
is a resident of Hamtangpara village under Roangchari Upazila in
Bandarban.
According to sources, a group of armed JSS (Santu) men led by
Commander Dulal took him from Chitmorom area on 3 December and held
him hostage.
Shanti Babu’s wife Rita Chakma said the kidnappers had called her from
her husband’s mobile phone and demanded Taka 300,000 as ransom.
Later, on 6 December, she paid Taka 200,000 and got him released.
After release, Shanti Babu, a father of two children, told chtnews.com
five or six Jumma youths he suspects to be members of JSS (Santu
faction) had forcibly taken him away from Chitmorom area in Kaptai and
then handed him over to a group of armed men.
He was kept at Barabunia, a stronghold of the Santu faction.
“They punched me and tied me down all the time.” he said.
Shanti Babu Khiang is a supporter of the UPDF. He participated in a
national convention against national repression in CHT held in Dhaka
on 29 November.
The convention was organised by Jatio Mukti Council, a political
alliance of which UPDF is a component.
Monday, December 6, 2010
Resistance against land grab in Lemuchari
THE Jumma people in Mahalchari put up road blocks for a few hours on Khagrachari – Rangamati road in the morning today in protest at land grab attempts by Bengali settlers in Lemuchari.
Hundreds of Jumma villagers gathered at Lemuchari, Bodanala, Noapara and Chobbish Mile and stopped vehicles plying on the road.
The road block lasted from 6am to 1pm.
Another group of people went to Lemuchari and smashed the houses built by settlers yesterday on 11 acres of land belonging to two Jumma villagers.
The Deputy Commissioner of Khagrachari, Anis-ul Haq Bhuiyan visited the spot and assured the Jumma protesters that he would look into the matter.
When the Jumma land owners showed him documents pertaining to the land in question, the DC said he would take a decision after considering all the legal aspects of the matter.
Mahalchari Upazila chairman Sona Ratan Chakma was present during DC’s visit.
UPDF protest
Ujwal Smriti Chakma, chief organiser of UPDF Khagrachari district unit, in a statement condemned the land grab attempt by Bengali settlers and urged the government to take actions against those involved in it.
He also demanded that the government recognise the traditional land rights of the Jumma people.
The Jana Samhati Samiti (Santu faction) also condemned the Lemuchari land grab attempt.
Mahalchari Land Protection Committee statement The Mahalchari Land Protection Committee in a statement condemned the attempts of the settlers to grab Jumma’s lands in Lemuchari.
Expressing concern, Committee leaders Shanta Shil Chakma and Bimal Chakma said “It is irony that yesterday’s land grab attempt took place at a time when the government is talking about its commitment to implement the CHT accord and settle land disputes in the CHT.”
They put forward a six-point demand which include putting a stop to land grabbing in Lemuchari, restitution of lands grabbed during the rule of emergency, dismantling of settler houses built on 100 acres of land in Gamaridhala in 2006, providing guarantee that no incident of land grab will occur in future, withdrawal of army personnel from Sarnath Aronnyo Kuthir and putting an end to restrictions on religious freedom.
PCP rally
The Hill Students’ Council (PCP) staged a demonstration today in Khagrachari in protest against the land grab attempt in Lemuchari.
Hundreds of students took part in a rally held at Swanirbhor area of the town. They also took out a procession which was intercepted by police at Narikul Bagan near Khagrachari bazaar.
The PCP leaders warned that they would launch waves of protests if land grabbing was not stopped immediately.
Apruchi Marma, Chandra Dev Chakma, Thuikyo Ching Marma, Bipul Chakma, Rina Dewan and Juthika Chakma spoke at the rally.
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Source : chtnews.com
Settlers say they will attack UPDF rallies in future
BENGALI settlers at rally in Naniachar said they would attack UPDF rallies in future.
The rally was organised by the so-called Sama Odhikar Andolon, a military-backed settler outfit, at Upazila ground in Naniachar in Rangamati district on December 5.
Earlier, UPDF was denied permissions to hold its rally at Upazila ground under the pretext of security.
The settler leaders said they were holding the rally to mark the Naniachar Massacre Day, which actually falls on 17 November.
This represented the first time the settlers observed the day.
Every year, the Jumma organisations observe the day to commemorate those killed in a deadly attack perpetrated by Bengali settlers on that fateful day.
Chaired by Shahed Ali, president of Sama Odhikar Andolon Naniachar Unit and a local BNP leader, the rally was also addressed, among others, by Burighat UP chairman Ayub Ali, Burighat UP member Salam, Sama Odhikar Andolon leader Mizanur Rahman and Mizanur Islam.
The speakers demanded that the government bans UPDF, and urged the local administration not to allow UPDF to hold any rally and public meetings in Naniachar.
“If UPDF is allowed to hold rallies and public meetings in future, then we will attack those rallies and public meetings.” one of the speakers warned.
The gathering is believed to be a counter-rally to a 22-November UPDF rally organised to mark the Naniachar Massacre Day.
The rally could not be held on 17 November as it coincided with Muslim’s Eid festival.
An estimated 1,500 people had taken part in that UPDF rally, in which the speakers gave the Naniachar zone commander a dressing down for the illegal arrest and harassment of PCP and HWF leaders.
The settler rally, on the other hand, was organised at the behest of Naniachar zone commander Lt. Col. Minhazul Islam.
Three days before the rally, he had had a meeting with Ayub Ali and Salam, and ordered them to organise it.
The army also forced the common Bengalis who came to Naniachar bazar to attend the rally.
According to eyewitnesses, they helped the settlers come to the venue in jeeps and buses and in engine boats under a broad security protection.
The army was also deployed all over the area.
Yet, the number of the participants was much lower than expected.
.............................
Source : chtnews.com
The rally was organised by the so-called Sama Odhikar Andolon, a military-backed settler outfit, at Upazila ground in Naniachar in Rangamati district on December 5.
Earlier, UPDF was denied permissions to hold its rally at Upazila ground under the pretext of security.
The settler leaders said they were holding the rally to mark the Naniachar Massacre Day, which actually falls on 17 November.
This represented the first time the settlers observed the day.
Every year, the Jumma organisations observe the day to commemorate those killed in a deadly attack perpetrated by Bengali settlers on that fateful day.
Chaired by Shahed Ali, president of Sama Odhikar Andolon Naniachar Unit and a local BNP leader, the rally was also addressed, among others, by Burighat UP chairman Ayub Ali, Burighat UP member Salam, Sama Odhikar Andolon leader Mizanur Rahman and Mizanur Islam.
The speakers demanded that the government bans UPDF, and urged the local administration not to allow UPDF to hold any rally and public meetings in Naniachar.
“If UPDF is allowed to hold rallies and public meetings in future, then we will attack those rallies and public meetings.” one of the speakers warned.
The gathering is believed to be a counter-rally to a 22-November UPDF rally organised to mark the Naniachar Massacre Day.
The rally could not be held on 17 November as it coincided with Muslim’s Eid festival.
An estimated 1,500 people had taken part in that UPDF rally, in which the speakers gave the Naniachar zone commander a dressing down for the illegal arrest and harassment of PCP and HWF leaders.
The settler rally, on the other hand, was organised at the behest of Naniachar zone commander Lt. Col. Minhazul Islam.
Three days before the rally, he had had a meeting with Ayub Ali and Salam, and ordered them to organise it.
The army also forced the common Bengalis who came to Naniachar bazar to attend the rally.
According to eyewitnesses, they helped the settlers come to the venue in jeeps and buses and in engine boats under a broad security protection.
The army was also deployed all over the area.
Yet, the number of the participants was much lower than expected.
.............................
Source : chtnews.com
Land grab attempt in Lemuchari
THREE have been reports of fresh attempts to grab lands by Bengali settlers in Khagrachari.
The land that the settlers are trying to grab belongs to two Jummas in Lemuchari of Mahalchari Upazila – Sunil Kanti Chakma son of late Chandra Kumar Chakma (8 acres) and Rupon Talukder (43) son of Gyana Lal Talukder (3 acres).
The army is providing full support to the settlers, sources said.
According to various sources, a group of 100 – 150 Bengali settlers entered the land at 9am today, and were building houses there.
Soldiers from Mahalchari zone and Kengelchari sub-zone were present at the spot while the settlers were occupying the land.
Lt. Col, Harunur Rashid is currently in charge of Mahalchari zone.
Two of the marauding settlers have been identified as Md. Osman son of Rofatul Sheikh and Abdur Rashid son of Boshor Bhuiyan – both from Lemuchari village.
During the state of emergency between 2007 and 2008, the settlers grabbed about 3 acres of land belonging to Rupon Talukder.
About a month ago, the settlers made fresh attempts to take the rest 3 acres from him, but were temporarily deterred when he filed a case.
Mahalchari Upazila Nirbahi officer Shafiul Arif is reported to have told Sona Ratan Chakma, Mahalchari Upazila chairman: “The army is directly involved in it, so I am not in a position to do anything.”
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Source : chtnews.com
Currection :
In the above news, : “Land grab attempt in Lemuchari” the name of Mahalchari zone commander was wrongly stated as “Lt. Col, Harunur Rashid”. His correct name is Lt. Col. Mamunur Rashid.
In the same news, reference was also made of “Mahalchari Upazila Nirbahi officer Shafiul Arif. In fact, he is on leave for a training programme, and Khagrachari Sadar Upazila Nirbahi Officer, Rahet
Hossain is learnt to be in charge of Mahalchari Upazila Nirbahi office as well.
We regret the mistakes
The land that the settlers are trying to grab belongs to two Jummas in Lemuchari of Mahalchari Upazila – Sunil Kanti Chakma son of late Chandra Kumar Chakma (8 acres) and Rupon Talukder (43) son of Gyana Lal Talukder (3 acres).
The army is providing full support to the settlers, sources said.
According to various sources, a group of 100 – 150 Bengali settlers entered the land at 9am today, and were building houses there.
Soldiers from Mahalchari zone and Kengelchari sub-zone were present at the spot while the settlers were occupying the land.
Lt. Col, Harunur Rashid is currently in charge of Mahalchari zone.
Two of the marauding settlers have been identified as Md. Osman son of Rofatul Sheikh and Abdur Rashid son of Boshor Bhuiyan – both from Lemuchari village.
During the state of emergency between 2007 and 2008, the settlers grabbed about 3 acres of land belonging to Rupon Talukder.
About a month ago, the settlers made fresh attempts to take the rest 3 acres from him, but were temporarily deterred when he filed a case.
Mahalchari Upazila Nirbahi officer Shafiul Arif is reported to have told Sona Ratan Chakma, Mahalchari Upazila chairman: “The army is directly involved in it, so I am not in a position to do anything.”
.............................
Source : chtnews.com
Currection :
In the above news, : “Land grab attempt in Lemuchari” the name of Mahalchari zone commander was wrongly stated as “Lt. Col, Harunur Rashid”. His correct name is Lt. Col. Mamunur Rashid.
In the same news, reference was also made of “Mahalchari Upazila Nirbahi officer Shafiul Arif. In fact, he is on leave for a training programme, and Khagrachari Sadar Upazila Nirbahi Officer, Rahet
Hossain is learnt to be in charge of Mahalchari Upazila Nirbahi office as well.
We regret the mistakes
Jumma organisations stage demo against land acquisition in Ruma
THREE Jumma organisations staged demonstrations in Panchari in protest at a government plan to acquire 9,560 acres of land for the purpose of expansion of Ruma cantonment in Bandarban.
The demonstration was organised by Hill Students Council (PCP), Hill Women’s Federation and Democratic Youth Forum on 3 December.
At a rally held at Panchari bus station, the speakers urged the government to cancel the acquisition plan and provide constitutional recognition to the traditional land rights of the Jumma people.
They also called for the government to stop land grabbing and return the lands already grabbed by illegal settlers to their rightful owners.
The rally was addressed by Pronoy Chakma, president of PCP Panchari unit, Hari Kamal Tripura, its general secretary, Nicolas Chakma, president of DYF Panchari unit and Madri Chakma, general secretary of HWF Khagrachari district unit.
The rally was preceded by a procession which started from Panchari college ground and paraded Panchari bazaar.
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Source : chtnews.com
The demonstration was organised by Hill Students Council (PCP), Hill Women’s Federation and Democratic Youth Forum on 3 December.
At a rally held at Panchari bus station, the speakers urged the government to cancel the acquisition plan and provide constitutional recognition to the traditional land rights of the Jumma people.
They also called for the government to stop land grabbing and return the lands already grabbed by illegal settlers to their rightful owners.
The rally was addressed by Pronoy Chakma, president of PCP Panchari unit, Hari Kamal Tripura, its general secretary, Nicolas Chakma, president of DYF Panchari unit and Madri Chakma, general secretary of HWF Khagrachari district unit.
The rally was preceded by a procession which started from Panchari college ground and paraded Panchari bazaar.
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Source : chtnews.com
Friday, December 3, 2010
DYF Sajek committee formed
A TWENTY-SIX member committee for Sajek unit of the Democratic Youth Forum was formed at the end of a youth conference held in Sajek Union in Rangamati district yesterday.
Chaired by Remin Chakma, president of DYF Khagrachari district unit, the conference was also addressed by Mithun Chakma, convenor of DYF central committee, Chikkodhan Chakma, convenor of DYF Baghaichari unit, Dipon Joti Chakma, president of DYF Dighinala unit, Subrata
Tripura, PCP central committee leader, Rina Chakma member of HWF, Gyanendu Chakma, convenor of Sajek Land Protection Committee and Ompika Chakma, convenor of Sajek Nari Samaj.
An estimated 1,500 people participated in the conference held at 11am at Gangaram Doar.
The speakers termed the 19 – 20 February attack Jumma villages in Sajek as preplanned, saying “the aim of this attack was to uproot the Jumma people from the area.”
The attack had left at least two persons dead and over four hundred houses burned to ashes.
They urged the Jumma youth to play a leading role in the struggle for the right to self-determination.
The speakers further said the government was still engaged in sinister plots to drive the Jumma people away from Sajek area.
“The army is still intimidating and coercing the people here.” one of the speakers said, adding, “we will resist any design to rob us of our hearts and homes.”
DYF leader Mithun Chakma said thirteen years have passed since the signing of the CHT accord but peace has not returned to the CHT.
He termed the accord “an instrument of surrender” and said such a document cannot serve the interest of the Jumma people.
Mithun severely criticized Santu Larma for allowing himself to be used as a pawn of the government and for helping every government in its design to destroy the Jummas using the Jummas.
He called upon all concerned to join in the struggle for full autonomy.
Remin Chakma urged the government to bring those involved in the 19 –20 February Sajek attacks including army officers to justice, declare the CHT as a special autonomous area, provide constitutional
recognition to the traditional land rights of the Jumma people, put an end to Operation Uttoran and withdraw the army from the CHT, rehabilitate the settlers outside the CHT and publish the inquiry report on the disappearance of Kalpana Chakma.
Later, the conference elected a 26-member committee for Sajek unit of the Democratic Youth Forum with Binoy Chakma as its president, Udayon Chakma as general secretary and Ripon Chakma as organizing secretary.
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Source : chtnews.com
Chaired by Remin Chakma, president of DYF Khagrachari district unit, the conference was also addressed by Mithun Chakma, convenor of DYF central committee, Chikkodhan Chakma, convenor of DYF Baghaichari unit, Dipon Joti Chakma, president of DYF Dighinala unit, Subrata
Tripura, PCP central committee leader, Rina Chakma member of HWF, Gyanendu Chakma, convenor of Sajek Land Protection Committee and Ompika Chakma, convenor of Sajek Nari Samaj.
An estimated 1,500 people participated in the conference held at 11am at Gangaram Doar.
The speakers termed the 19 – 20 February attack Jumma villages in Sajek as preplanned, saying “the aim of this attack was to uproot the Jumma people from the area.”
The attack had left at least two persons dead and over four hundred houses burned to ashes.
They urged the Jumma youth to play a leading role in the struggle for the right to self-determination.
The speakers further said the government was still engaged in sinister plots to drive the Jumma people away from Sajek area.
“The army is still intimidating and coercing the people here.” one of the speakers said, adding, “we will resist any design to rob us of our hearts and homes.”
DYF leader Mithun Chakma said thirteen years have passed since the signing of the CHT accord but peace has not returned to the CHT.
He termed the accord “an instrument of surrender” and said such a document cannot serve the interest of the Jumma people.
Mithun severely criticized Santu Larma for allowing himself to be used as a pawn of the government and for helping every government in its design to destroy the Jummas using the Jummas.
He called upon all concerned to join in the struggle for full autonomy.
Remin Chakma urged the government to bring those involved in the 19 –20 February Sajek attacks including army officers to justice, declare the CHT as a special autonomous area, provide constitutional
recognition to the traditional land rights of the Jumma people, put an end to Operation Uttoran and withdraw the army from the CHT, rehabilitate the settlers outside the CHT and publish the inquiry report on the disappearance of Kalpana Chakma.
Later, the conference elected a 26-member committee for Sajek unit of the Democratic Youth Forum with Binoy Chakma as its president, Udayon Chakma as general secretary and Ripon Chakma as organizing secretary.
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Source : chtnews.com
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Villager tortured in Panchari
A JUMMA villager was reportedly tortured by army in Panchari under Khagrachari district.
The incident took place on Monday, 29 November. The victim has been identified as Sanjeeb Tripura, 25, of village Moratila.
According to sources, on that day at 10am a group of army from Panchari zone raided the village and asked Sajeeb whether he had seen any terrorist in his area. When he answered in the negative, the soldiers beat him with sticks.
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Source : chtnews.com
The incident took place on Monday, 29 November. The victim has been identified as Sanjeeb Tripura, 25, of village Moratila.
According to sources, on that day at 10am a group of army from Panchari zone raided the village and asked Sajeeb whether he had seen any terrorist in his area. When he answered in the negative, the soldiers beat him with sticks.
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Source : chtnews.com
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