THE Hill Students’ Council has staged a demonstration in Manikchari protesting the rape and murder of 28-year old Nowbai Marma.
At a rally held at Dharmaghar today at 1am, PCP Khagrachari district unit president Apruchi Marma condemned the incident and demanded exemplary punishment of the culprits.
He said sexual assaults on Jumma women by illegal Bengali settlers have become a persisting problem in the Chittagong Hill Tracts.
“Today nowhere are our Jumma girls and women safe. Everywhere they are targeted for sexual attacks.” he further said.
The rally was preceded by a procession which kicked off from Manikchari college ground and marched to in front of Caritas office.
Ms Nowbai Marma was raped and murdered at her home on Friday night (25 March) by a gang of settlers.
Her husband Suicha Prue Marma was away from home when she was raped.
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Source : chtnews.com
Sunday, March 27, 2011
Jumma women killed after rape
A JUMMA woman has been murdered allegedly after rape in Manikchari under Khagrachari district, daily newspapers say.
The daily Samakal has reported that some unidentified terrorists on Saturday night choked a Jumma woman to death after raping her at Mahamuni area in Manikchari.
The Prothom Alo, another Bengali daily, identified the deceased as Nowbai Marma, 28.
Her dead body was recovered from her house yesterday, Saturday.
Ms Nowbai Marma’s husband, Suicha Prue Marma, a day labourer, filed a case with Manikchari police station yesterday.
The police have arrested three suspects in connection with the incident, the daily further said.
The arrested are Md. Selim, Sahabuddin and Firoz.
Hill Women’s Federation general secretary Konika Dewan has condemned the rape and murder of Nowbai Marma and demanded that the culprits be awarded maximum punishment.
HWF will hold a protest demonstration today in Khagrachari.
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Source : chtnews.com
The daily Samakal has reported that some unidentified terrorists on Saturday night choked a Jumma woman to death after raping her at Mahamuni area in Manikchari.
The Prothom Alo, another Bengali daily, identified the deceased as Nowbai Marma, 28.
Her dead body was recovered from her house yesterday, Saturday.
Ms Nowbai Marma’s husband, Suicha Prue Marma, a day labourer, filed a case with Manikchari police station yesterday.
The police have arrested three suspects in connection with the incident, the daily further said.
The arrested are Md. Selim, Sahabuddin and Firoz.
Hill Women’s Federation general secretary Konika Dewan has condemned the rape and murder of Nowbai Marma and demanded that the culprits be awarded maximum punishment.
HWF will hold a protest demonstration today in Khagrachari.
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Source : chtnews.com
Three Jummas arrested after torture in Khiram
THREE Jumma villagers have been arrested by army in Khiram, a Bengali populated area bordering Bormachari of the Chittagong Hill Tracts.
Sources said Ashutosh Talukder, 44, a teacher of Bormachari Junior High School, Potindra Chakma, 45, son of Sadhanya Chakma of village Guichari and Priya Lal Chakma, 32, son of Kamala Kanta Chakma of village Bodyopara were on their way to Nanupur bazaar in Fatikchari
when a group of Bengali youths caught and beat them at Khiram Chowmuhoni today at 10am.
At one stage, the Borkha terrorists, who stay at Anirban club of the army at Khiram bazaar, put two light guns (LG) in their hands and then handed them over to Khiram army camp.
The army was reportedly beating them further at the camp, sources said.
The beating and handing over of the three innocent Jummas may be in reprisal for the mass beating of two members of the Borkha Party at Bormachari bazaar a few days ago, a resident of Bormachari commented.
Ashutosh and Potindra were going to Nanupur to buy iron rods and cement for the construction of a culvert, while Priya Lal, an employee of an NGO named Muktipada, was on personal business.
Pradipan Khisha, chief organiser of the United People’s Democratic Front (UPDF), in a statement has condemned the torture and arrest of the three Jummas and demanded that they be released and the army-backed Borkha terrorists arrested.
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Source : chtnews.com
Sources said Ashutosh Talukder, 44, a teacher of Bormachari Junior High School, Potindra Chakma, 45, son of Sadhanya Chakma of village Guichari and Priya Lal Chakma, 32, son of Kamala Kanta Chakma of village Bodyopara were on their way to Nanupur bazaar in Fatikchari
when a group of Bengali youths caught and beat them at Khiram Chowmuhoni today at 10am.
At one stage, the Borkha terrorists, who stay at Anirban club of the army at Khiram bazaar, put two light guns (LG) in their hands and then handed them over to Khiram army camp.
The army was reportedly beating them further at the camp, sources said.
The beating and handing over of the three innocent Jummas may be in reprisal for the mass beating of two members of the Borkha Party at Bormachari bazaar a few days ago, a resident of Bormachari commented.
Ashutosh and Potindra were going to Nanupur to buy iron rods and cement for the construction of a culvert, while Priya Lal, an employee of an NGO named Muktipada, was on personal business.
Pradipan Khisha, chief organiser of the United People’s Democratic Front (UPDF), in a statement has condemned the torture and arrest of the three Jummas and demanded that they be released and the army-backed Borkha terrorists arrested.
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Source : chtnews.com
Army foils PCP reception ceremony at Ramgarh
Members of the Bangladesh Army have foiled a reception ceremony organised by the Hill Students’ Council for those came out successful in Junior School Certificate (JSC) and primary school exams at Buddha Dhan Karbari Para in Ramgarh of Khagrachari district, a press release
says.
The United Peoples’ Democratic Front (UPDF) and Hill Students Council (PC) have condemned the army action as violation of fundamental rights enshrined in the constitution of Bangladesh.
Sources said the PCP had organised the reception for the students of six schools in Patachara Union of Ramgarh and one in Guimara Union of Matiranga Upazila, as part of a series of such programmes in the area.
The reception was to be held today, 25 March, Friday, in the village of Buddha Dhan Karbari Para under Patachara Union.
At around 3am a group of 40 army personnel from Bhajyapara camp under Matiranga zone went to the venue of the programme and dismantled the marquee and seized all its materials.
At 7am more soldiers from Guimara brigade and large contingents of police personnel from Ramgarh and Matiranga were reinforced.
They surrounded the programme venue and Buddha Dhan Karbari Para village.
“No one is being allowed to go out of the village” Ankon Chakma, a local PCP leader told chtnews.com.
UPDF Khagrachari district unit leader Pradipan Khisha and PCP leader Apruchi Marma blasted the army action saying: “It violates the fundamental rights of the people and lays bare the fascist and anti-popular policy of the government.”
They further said, “On the one hand, the army and police are encouraging the people to indulge in gambling and drinking and on the other, disrupting simple and innocuous programmes such as reception ceremonies for the students. This only proves that the government is implementing a blueprint to destroy the Jumma people.”
They said such fascist and undemocratic behaviour would never do good for the government and the army.
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Source : chtnews.com
says.
The United Peoples’ Democratic Front (UPDF) and Hill Students Council (PC) have condemned the army action as violation of fundamental rights enshrined in the constitution of Bangladesh.
Sources said the PCP had organised the reception for the students of six schools in Patachara Union of Ramgarh and one in Guimara Union of Matiranga Upazila, as part of a series of such programmes in the area.
The reception was to be held today, 25 March, Friday, in the village of Buddha Dhan Karbari Para under Patachara Union.
At around 3am a group of 40 army personnel from Bhajyapara camp under Matiranga zone went to the venue of the programme and dismantled the marquee and seized all its materials.
At 7am more soldiers from Guimara brigade and large contingents of police personnel from Ramgarh and Matiranga were reinforced.
They surrounded the programme venue and Buddha Dhan Karbari Para village.
“No one is being allowed to go out of the village” Ankon Chakma, a local PCP leader told chtnews.com.
UPDF Khagrachari district unit leader Pradipan Khisha and PCP leader Apruchi Marma blasted the army action saying: “It violates the fundamental rights of the people and lays bare the fascist and anti-popular policy of the government.”
They further said, “On the one hand, the army and police are encouraging the people to indulge in gambling and drinking and on the other, disrupting simple and innocuous programmes such as reception ceremonies for the students. This only proves that the government is implementing a blueprint to destroy the Jumma people.”
They said such fascist and undemocratic behaviour would never do good for the government and the army.
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Source : chtnews.com
Santu group kidnaps two in Belaichari
TWO innocent Jumma villagers have been kidnapped and 7 others tortured in Belaichari under Rangamati district, a press release said.
The incident occurred on Monday night, 21 March. According to UPDF, the kidnapped are Nango Chakma, 50, son of Surojoy Chakma and Dhenga Chakma, 38, son of Pukko Chakma.
A group of 12 – 15 armed men led by Pramesh Chakma, a Santu loyalist, kidnapped Nango Chakma, the Karbari or village chief of Kangarachari from his home and Dhenga Chakma from a house of his relative in Shamukchari village.
The armed men also beat up seven villagers. They are Buro Chakma, 18, son of Ananda Chakma; Mujib chakma, 19, son of Hidinath Chakma; Modon Chakma, 20, son of Tongi Chakma; Kalaya Chakma, 21, son of Thudo Chakma; Morodcha Chakma, 22, son of Bhabo Chakma; Jotil Chakma, 24, son of Biro Lal Chakma; and Bhutto Chakma, 18, sonf of Kamo Dev Chakma.
They were catching fish with nets when the armed gang came and tortured them. The Santu men also snatched away Taka 7,500 and a mobile hand set from Ranga Chitti Chakma, a local shopkeeper.
UPDF leader Shanti Dev Chakma has condemned the incident and urged the Santu group to release the abducted villagers immediately.
He said, “The Santu group has degenerated into an armed gang whose motto is murder, kidnapping, terrorism and extortion. It is now engaged in destructive activities harmful to the interest of the Jumma people.”
“Therefore, it has become an important duty for every patriot to resist Santu group” he added.
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Source : chtnews.com
The incident occurred on Monday night, 21 March. According to UPDF, the kidnapped are Nango Chakma, 50, son of Surojoy Chakma and Dhenga Chakma, 38, son of Pukko Chakma.
A group of 12 – 15 armed men led by Pramesh Chakma, a Santu loyalist, kidnapped Nango Chakma, the Karbari or village chief of Kangarachari from his home and Dhenga Chakma from a house of his relative in Shamukchari village.
The armed men also beat up seven villagers. They are Buro Chakma, 18, son of Ananda Chakma; Mujib chakma, 19, son of Hidinath Chakma; Modon Chakma, 20, son of Tongi Chakma; Kalaya Chakma, 21, son of Thudo Chakma; Morodcha Chakma, 22, son of Bhabo Chakma; Jotil Chakma, 24, son of Biro Lal Chakma; and Bhutto Chakma, 18, sonf of Kamo Dev Chakma.
They were catching fish with nets when the armed gang came and tortured them. The Santu men also snatched away Taka 7,500 and a mobile hand set from Ranga Chitti Chakma, a local shopkeeper.
UPDF leader Shanti Dev Chakma has condemned the incident and urged the Santu group to release the abducted villagers immediately.
He said, “The Santu group has degenerated into an armed gang whose motto is murder, kidnapping, terrorism and extortion. It is now engaged in destructive activities harmful to the interest of the Jumma people.”
“Therefore, it has become an important duty for every patriot to resist Santu group” he added.
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Source : chtnews.com
Two UPDF supporters kidnapped in Rangamati
TWO supporters of the United People’s Democratic Front (UPDF) have been kidnapped in Rangamati district, a press release said.
On 11 March, a group of Santu Larma loyalists kidnapped Sumon Chakma, 22, son of Shanti Lal Chakma from his home in the village of Eizhachari under Kangarachari Union of Belaichari Upazila.
Sumon Chakma is a member of Democratic Youth Forum, a front organisation of the United People’s Democratic Front.
In another incident, on 13 March, an armed group of Santu Larma loyalists kidnapped Poran Dhan Chakma, 18, son of Doyal Chandra Chakma from his home in the village of Daney Panchari in Jurachari Upazila.
The Santu group men came from Aimachara and were led by Tonoy, Promesh and Digonto.
UPDF leader Shanti Dev Chakma in a statement issued to the media today condemned the kidnapping of two UPDF supporters and demanded their immediate release.
Shanti branded Santu Larma as the father of terrorism, disorder and anarchy in the CHT, and called on the people to resist him and his armed gangs.
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Source : chtnews.com
On 11 March, a group of Santu Larma loyalists kidnapped Sumon Chakma, 22, son of Shanti Lal Chakma from his home in the village of Eizhachari under Kangarachari Union of Belaichari Upazila.
Sumon Chakma is a member of Democratic Youth Forum, a front organisation of the United People’s Democratic Front.
In another incident, on 13 March, an armed group of Santu Larma loyalists kidnapped Poran Dhan Chakma, 18, son of Doyal Chandra Chakma from his home in the village of Daney Panchari in Jurachari Upazila.
The Santu group men came from Aimachara and were led by Tonoy, Promesh and Digonto.
UPDF leader Shanti Dev Chakma in a statement issued to the media today condemned the kidnapping of two UPDF supporters and demanded their immediate release.
Shanti branded Santu Larma as the father of terrorism, disorder and anarchy in the CHT, and called on the people to resist him and his armed gangs.
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Source : chtnews.com
Friday, March 11, 2011
Army arrests 2 in CHT
TWO persons have been arrested in Nareichari and Naniachar, sources say.
In Nareichari, where a manhunt for the attackers of a BGB patrol team is underway, the soldiers arrested Ranga Ranjan Chakma, 27, son of Phool Raj Chakma from Meinie Dojor Para village near India-Bangladesh border.
He was arrested during a raid at 7am today. The army also searched each and every house in the village.
The army claim that they have found Indian currency from his house, but it could not be independently verified.
The military operation, which began after the attack on 8 March, is still continuing.
Naniachar
In another incident, the army have arrested Adi Shankar Chakma, 30, a leader of the Democratic Youth Forum.
He is from Uttor Phiringi Para village in Naniachar and holds the post of office secretary of Bandar Thana unit of the Democratic Youth Forum.
He was arrested because he was carrying with him a coupon book for the upcoming 1 April central council of the Youth Forum.
He has been handed over to the police after arrest.
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Source : chtnews.com
In Nareichari, where a manhunt for the attackers of a BGB patrol team is underway, the soldiers arrested Ranga Ranjan Chakma, 27, son of Phool Raj Chakma from Meinie Dojor Para village near India-Bangladesh border.
He was arrested during a raid at 7am today. The army also searched each and every house in the village.
The army claim that they have found Indian currency from his house, but it could not be independently verified.
The military operation, which began after the attack on 8 March, is still continuing.
Naniachar
In another incident, the army have arrested Adi Shankar Chakma, 30, a leader of the Democratic Youth Forum.
He is from Uttor Phiringi Para village in Naniachar and holds the post of office secretary of Bandar Thana unit of the Democratic Youth Forum.
He was arrested because he was carrying with him a coupon book for the upcoming 1 April central council of the Youth Forum.
He has been handed over to the police after arrest.
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Source : chtnews.com
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Army conducts house searches in Nareichari
MEMBERS of the Bangladesh Army have began a search operation in remote Nareichari area under Khagrachari district, after a Border Guards Bangladesh (BGB) officer was wounded in an armed encounter with Santu group on 8 March.
Hundreds of army personnel have been deployed by helicopters in the area and a search operation is now underway.
On Wednesday night (9 March), the army began a manhunt for the “terrorists” and carried out massive house searches in the area.
According to sources, ten houses were searched on that night. These belong to Kalpa Ranjan Chakma, 35, son of Rajani Kumar Chakma of village Mojoleng Chara; Biloy Giri Chakma, 48, son of Modhu Chan Chakma, Priti Chakma, 35, son of Bhagabanya Chakma, Ripon Chakma, 32,
Sneha Kumar Chakma, 50, Bichchingo Chakma, 30, son of Borhan Chakma and Ripon chakma, 26, son of Phul Ranjan Chakma from Nareichari village; and Maya Rani Chakma, 35, Dibos Chakma, 42, son of Surjo Mohan Chakma, Subhash Chakma, 34 son of Dibendra Chakma of Bareichari bazaar.
The United People’s Democratic Front (UPDF) in a statement has called for an end to harassment of innocent people in the name of searches.
Kalo Prio Chakma, organizer of UPDF Khagrachari district unit, said torture and harassment of innocent villagers had began after a BGB officer was wounded in an armed attack by Santu group on 8 March.
He said the BGB men tortured Padma Lal Chakma, a 29-year old villager from Dojorpara, when he failed to provide information about the whereabouts of the “terrorists”.
Mr Chakma urged the government to arrest the armed gangs belonging to Santu Larma instead of harassing innocent people.
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Source : chtnews.com
Hundreds of army personnel have been deployed by helicopters in the area and a search operation is now underway.
On Wednesday night (9 March), the army began a manhunt for the “terrorists” and carried out massive house searches in the area.
According to sources, ten houses were searched on that night. These belong to Kalpa Ranjan Chakma, 35, son of Rajani Kumar Chakma of village Mojoleng Chara; Biloy Giri Chakma, 48, son of Modhu Chan Chakma, Priti Chakma, 35, son of Bhagabanya Chakma, Ripon Chakma, 32,
Sneha Kumar Chakma, 50, Bichchingo Chakma, 30, son of Borhan Chakma and Ripon chakma, 26, son of Phul Ranjan Chakma from Nareichari village; and Maya Rani Chakma, 35, Dibos Chakma, 42, son of Surjo Mohan Chakma, Subhash Chakma, 34 son of Dibendra Chakma of Bareichari bazaar.
The United People’s Democratic Front (UPDF) in a statement has called for an end to harassment of innocent people in the name of searches.
Kalo Prio Chakma, organizer of UPDF Khagrachari district unit, said torture and harassment of innocent villagers had began after a BGB officer was wounded in an armed attack by Santu group on 8 March.
He said the BGB men tortured Padma Lal Chakma, a 29-year old villager from Dojorpara, when he failed to provide information about the whereabouts of the “terrorists”.
Mr Chakma urged the government to arrest the armed gangs belonging to Santu Larma instead of harassing innocent people.
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Source : chtnews.com
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Press conference and human chain against Borkha Party
THE Peace-loving People of Laxmichari has held a press conference and a human chain in Khagrachari town, demanding the arrest of Borkha Party members who they say have established a reign of terror in Laxmichari. .Held at Contractor’s Association Building at Swanirbhor at 11am today, the press conference was attended by headmen, village chiefs, businessmen, teachers and village elders of Laxmichari Upazila.
In a written statement, Pratul Kanti Chakma, a village doctor, said: “A terrorist group popularly known as Borkha Party has been engaged in unlawful activities including murder, kidnapping and extortion for a fairly long time. The common people are completely fed up with them,
while peaceful environment has banished from the area. From common villagers to elected public representatives – all tremble in fear of them, because the terrorists enjoy support and shelter from the local civil administration as well as the army.”
Mr Chakma accused Laxmichari Zone commander Lt. Col. Salauddin Al Murad of patronizing the Borkha Party terrorists, citing instances in which both the army and Borkha members carried out joint operations in the area.
He held the Borkha Party members responsible for the death of UPDF leader Ruikhoi Marma and said since it came into being in June 2009 the Borkha Party has kidnapped 11 persons and tortured 30 others.
“The Borkha Party members have turned Jurgachari into their den and carry out their terrorist activities from there under the nose of the local administration.” he alleged.
He said a number of criminal cases have been filed against the Brokha Party members but no action has been taken so for by the government.
“Not only that, the local administration has dropped their names from the charge sheet in a case filed in connection with the murder of Rui Khoi Marma” he added.
In the statement Pratul further said that army personnel from Goyachari camp in Ramgarh had captured two Borkha members -- Peda Chakma (25) and Majhi Chakma (30) – with firearms on 25 March last year, but had to let them go under order from then Laxmichari zone commander Lt. Col. Shariful Islam.
He put forward three points of demand which included arrest of all members of the Borkha Party terrorists including their ring leader Anil Chakma and bringing them to justice; stopping patronization of them by civil as well as military administration and restoring peace
in the area by providing security to the life and property of the people.
Rajen Chakma and Pratul Kanti Chakma entertained questions from the journalists at the press conference.
Sureh Kanti Chakma, a Jumma businessman, Assim Chakma, Karbari or chief of Sumanta Para village, Supriti Bikash Chakma, headman of Shuknachari Mouza were among those present at the press conference.
After the press conference they formed a human chain in front of Khagrachari District Council office to press their demand for the arrest of the Borkha Party terrorists.
Press release: Rajen Chakma, Laxmichari
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Source :chtnews.com
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Jumma villager tortured by BGB
AN INNOCENT Jumma villager has been reportedly tortured by members of the Border Guards Bangladesh in Nareichari under Dighinala Upazila.
The incident took place at about 9am today, Tuesday.
A group of BGB men from Nareichari camp asked Padma Lal Chakma (son of Debendra Chakma of village Dojorpara, Nareichari) whether he knew the whereabouts of the terrorists.
When the 29-year-old said “no”, they kicked and punched him.
The Nareichari BGB camp is commanded by Captain Sanjid.
The incident followed an armed clash between the BGB men and Santu Larma loyalists in the morning.
Locals said the BGB had been patronizing the armed members of the Santu group for a fairly long time.
“The BGB do not do anything when the armed Santu loyalists frequent near the camp; rather they helped them to enter Nareichari and carry out terrorist activities.” a villager in Nareichari said.
On 8 February, the Santu loyalists raided Nareichari bazaar and looted away 18,252 kgs of husked rice, cigarettes and other essentials, he added.
The armed men used a jungle path near the camp during the raid, and yet, the BGB men did nothing to arrest them.
It is not known what caused the today’s armed clash between the BGB and Santu loyalists.
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Source : chtnews.com
The incident took place at about 9am today, Tuesday.
A group of BGB men from Nareichari camp asked Padma Lal Chakma (son of Debendra Chakma of village Dojorpara, Nareichari) whether he knew the whereabouts of the terrorists.
When the 29-year-old said “no”, they kicked and punched him.
The Nareichari BGB camp is commanded by Captain Sanjid.
The incident followed an armed clash between the BGB men and Santu Larma loyalists in the morning.
Locals said the BGB had been patronizing the armed members of the Santu group for a fairly long time.
“The BGB do not do anything when the armed Santu loyalists frequent near the camp; rather they helped them to enter Nareichari and carry out terrorist activities.” a villager in Nareichari said.
On 8 February, the Santu loyalists raided Nareichari bazaar and looted away 18,252 kgs of husked rice, cigarettes and other essentials, he added.
The armed men used a jungle path near the camp during the raid, and yet, the BGB men did nothing to arrest them.
It is not known what caused the today’s armed clash between the BGB and Santu loyalists.
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Source : chtnews.com
HWF observes 23th founding anniversary
TODAY is the 101th International Women’s Day. The day is doubly significant to the women of the Chittagong Hill Tract because it was on this day in 1988 that the Hill Women’s Federation came into being. Therefore, today also marks HWF’s 23th founding anniversary.To mark the day, the HWF organised rallies and discussions in Khagrachari, Panchari, Baghaichari and Kudukchari. (photo attached)
Khagrachari
A women’s rally was held at Swanirbhor in the morning today to highlight the significance of the International women’s Day.
Chaired by Chandani Chakma, vice president of HWF Khagrachari District unit, the rally was also addressed by Rina Dewan, organising secretary of the HWF central committee; Subir Chakma, organising secretary of DYF Khagrachari district unit; and Apruchi Marma, president of PCP Khagrachari District unit.
Besides, M. M. Parvez Lenin, member of Bangladesh Student’s Federation Chittagong University unit, spoke in solidarity while Eching Marma, a member of the HWF, presented the speakers to the audience.
The organisers tried to bring out a procession after the rally, but the police prevented them.
The speakers said sexual assaults on Jumma women are on the rise. In the last few months a number of women, including minor girls, have been raped.
They urged all to speed up the movement against repression of women and said, “Full autonomy is crucial for the achievement of women’s rights in the CHT.”
They also urged the government to take effective and stern measures to end all forms of violence against Jumma women in CHT.
Rina Dewan flayed the local civil administration for continuously denying UPDF and it front organisations the right to organise rallies and protest marches.
She urged the government to lift the de facto ban on rallies and public meetings imposed a year ago after the Sajek and Khagrachari settler attacks.
Panchari
In Panchari, the HWF held a rally at College Gate area with Sebika Chakma in the chair.
The rally was also addressed by Arpan Chakma (DYF), Barun Chakma (DYF), Hari Kamal Tripura (PCP), Anil Chakma (UP member), Indrani Tripura (villager, T & T) and Sneha Kumar Tripura (villager, Kalanal).
Baghaichari
The HWF held a rally and procession in Baghaichari. The procession kicked off from Babupara and paraded through Upazila ground and Marishya bazaar.
Later, a discussion meeting was held at Babupara Community Centre. Moderated by Sharmila Chakma, convener of HWF Baghaichari unit, it was addressed by Angod Chakma (DYF), Atol Chakma (PCP) Alo Jibon Chakma (PCP) and Kripa Rani Chakma (Sajek Nari Samaj).
Kudukchari
A discussion meeting was held at Kalabunia with HWF vice president Nirupa Chakma in the chair.
HWF general secretary Konika Dewan, ex PCP president Ricoh Chakma, PCP leader Bablu Chakma, organizer of Jatio Ganotantric Gano Manch Nushrat Jahan Choton, Ghilachari Women’s Committee member Koheli Chakma, Sapchari village elder Monimala Chakma and HWF Rangamati district unit president Juthika Chakma.
Sadhana Chakma presented the speakers to the audience.
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Source : chtnews.com
Two Jumma teens raped in Bandarban
TWO teenaged Tanchangya girls are alleged to have been raped after abduction in Boroitali under Ghumghum Union of Nakhyongchari Upazila, reports bangladeshnews24x7.com.
(http://www.bangladeshnews24x7.com/districtnews/chittagongdivision/bandarbanzilla/11393-2011-03-06-05-38-18.html)
The girls, aged 15 and 16, whose names have not been mentioned in the report, were abducted by six miscreants on Friday night (4 March).
They were held captive in a house in Haludia Patabari area under Ukhia Upazila of Cox’s Bazaar district and gang raped.
On Saturday, the local people recovered them from that house and caught Jassim (25) and Jahed (30), two of the six abductors, red-handed.
However, the people let the them off the hook.
The girls were kidnapped while on their way back home from a festival at Patabari area.
Jassim and Jahed live in this village.
The four other rapists have been identified as Al Salam, Abdul Rahim, Md. Harun and Md. Jassim. They are from Boidya Para village in Ukhia.
Mr Mongchi Thoai Tanchangya, father of one of the victims, said they would file a case with Nakhyongchari police station in this connection.
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Source : chtnews.com
(http://www.bangladeshnews24x7.com/districtnews/chittagongdivision/bandarbanzilla/11393-2011-03-06-05-38-18.html)
The girls, aged 15 and 16, whose names have not been mentioned in the report, were abducted by six miscreants on Friday night (4 March).
They were held captive in a house in Haludia Patabari area under Ukhia Upazila of Cox’s Bazaar district and gang raped.
On Saturday, the local people recovered them from that house and caught Jassim (25) and Jahed (30), two of the six abductors, red-handed.
However, the people let the them off the hook.
The girls were kidnapped while on their way back home from a festival at Patabari area.
Jassim and Jahed live in this village.
The four other rapists have been identified as Al Salam, Abdul Rahim, Md. Harun and Md. Jassim. They are from Boidya Para village in Ukhia.
Mr Mongchi Thoai Tanchangya, father of one of the victims, said they would file a case with Nakhyongchari police station in this connection.
.............................
Source : chtnews.com
Saturday, March 5, 2011
UPDF leaders meet with Amnesty International team
LEADERS of the United People’s Democratic Front (UPDF) have met with a visiting team of the international human rights group Amnesty International.
The meeting took place at 5pm today in Khagrachari town.
The UPDF leaders highlighted the political repression on its members and supporters and sought AI intervention in preventing human rights violations in the CHT.
In a written statement handed to the AI delegates, UPDF says: “Political repression on UPDF and its front organisations has become a common feature of the CHT situation. Its rallies and processions are regularly attacked. The army has sealed off four unit offices of the UPDF, namely, Rajstali, Belaichari, Naniachar and Kudukchari.”
Amnesty International’s South Asia researcher Abbas Faiz said he would raise the issues, especially the ban on rallies and processions in Khagrachari, at his meeting with government officials.
The other members of the AI team include Andrew Erueti, Director of Ain O Salish Kendra Md. Noor Khan and Fahmina Rahman.
The UPDF was represented by Pradipan Khisha, Ujwal Smriti Chakma, Kalo Priya Chakma, Aongay Marma and Rina Dewan.
The full text of the statement follows:
Statement to the visiting members of the Amnesty International
United People’s Democratic Front (UPDF)
Khagrachari District Unit
March 5, 2011
1. Human rights violation in the Chittagong Hill Tracts continues. The army, paramilitary personnel and illegal Bengali settlers are involved in right violations. The attack on two Jumma villages in Longudu on 17 February is a case in point. At least 22 houses belonging to the Jumma
people and a Para Kendra (village centre) were set afire in this attack. Four Jummas were also beaten up.
2. Army in Laxmichari continues to patronize a vigilante group popularly known as Borkha Party. This group was created in 2009 by then Laxmichari Zone Commander Lt. Col. Shariful Islam. Members of this group are responsible for the death of UPDF leader Rui Khoi Marma
on 2 October 2009. The main purpose of the creation of the Borkha Party is to counter the growing influence of the UPDF.
On 25 February, the army and Borkha Party attacked a reception hosted by PCP and HWF for those students who came out successful in JSC (Junior School Certificate) and primary school examinations. At least 15 persons including women were injured. The programme was foiled.
The Borkha Party members stay in Khiram army camp under Laxmichari Zone. They are also allowed to use a club house named Anirban belonging to the army at Khiram bazaar.
The army and Borkha Party members regularly carry out joint operations in the Jumma villages and harass the villagers.
3. Political repression on UPDF and its front organisations has become a common feature of the CHT situation. Its rallies and processions are regularly attacked. The army has sealed off four unit offices of the UPDF, namely, Rajstali, Belaichari, Naniachar and Kudukchari.
The Khagrachari administration imposed ban on rallies and public meetings in Khagrachari district following the 23 February 2010 attack on Jumma inhabited areas in Khagrachari town. The decision on the ban was taken at a review meeting on law and order in which no UPDF
members were invited. This ban still continues. The ban is applicable for those parties and organisations which are not registered with the Election Commission. This is a clear case of discrimination. UPDF wrote to the district administration to inform it in writing whether
the media reports on the ban were true. But the authorities did not
bother to reply to our letter.
4. Arrest of the members of the UPDF and its front organisations has not stopped. Mikel Chakma, spokesperson of the UPDF and member secretary of the Democratic Youth Forum, was arrested by Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) from Chittagong on February 8, 2011. The JSS (Santu
faction) members in Chittagong helped the RAB to arrest him. They put two pipe guns and Yaba drugs into his bag while he was in toilet and asked RAB members to arrest him.
5. Repression on Jumma women has become a festering problem in the CHT. There is no security for them. Nowhere are they safe. They cannot go fetch water from streams, graze their cows in the field, go in the jungle to collect firewood, visit temples and relatives; they cannot
even stay home alone. Wherever they are, they are targeted for sexual assaults, especially rape, by the army and settlers. No one is spared – from 4-year old girls to 80-year old women, all are raped. Even the physically challenged girls and women are not spared.
Until and unless the army and settlers are withdrawn, human rights violations including rape and repression of Jumma women will not cease.
6. Land grabbing has also become a regular phenomenon. An attempt by illegal Bengali settlers to occupy land in Mahalchari on 5 December 2010 prompted the Jumma villagers to block Khagrachari – Rangamati link road the next day. The settlers, who were backed by the army, had to retreat in the face of protests. Similar incident also took place in Naniachar and Longudu Upazilas in Rangamati district.
7. We appeal to the Amnesty International to urge the government to take the following measures:
a. To immediately stop human rights violations in the CHT including repression of Jumma women.
b. To stop political persecution of the UPDF and its front organisations and to withdraw the ban on rallies and demonstrations in Khagrachari district.
c. To order an independent and impartial inquiry headed by a High Court judge into the 17 February Longudu attack and bring the perpetrators to justice and pay adequate compensation to the victims.
d. To stop land grabbing and return the grabbed lands to their rightful owners and to provide constitutional recognition to the customary land laws of the Jumma people.
e. To agree to receive financial assistance from European Union to rehabilitate the illegal Bengali settlers outside of the CHT.
f. To withdraw the army from the CHT.
Pradipan Khisha
Chief Organizer
UPDF Khagrachari District Unit
.............................
Source : chtnews.com
The meeting took place at 5pm today in Khagrachari town.
The UPDF leaders highlighted the political repression on its members and supporters and sought AI intervention in preventing human rights violations in the CHT.
In a written statement handed to the AI delegates, UPDF says: “Political repression on UPDF and its front organisations has become a common feature of the CHT situation. Its rallies and processions are regularly attacked. The army has sealed off four unit offices of the UPDF, namely, Rajstali, Belaichari, Naniachar and Kudukchari.”
Amnesty International’s South Asia researcher Abbas Faiz said he would raise the issues, especially the ban on rallies and processions in Khagrachari, at his meeting with government officials.
The other members of the AI team include Andrew Erueti, Director of Ain O Salish Kendra Md. Noor Khan and Fahmina Rahman.
The UPDF was represented by Pradipan Khisha, Ujwal Smriti Chakma, Kalo Priya Chakma, Aongay Marma and Rina Dewan.
The full text of the statement follows:
Statement to the visiting members of the Amnesty International
United People’s Democratic Front (UPDF)
Khagrachari District Unit
March 5, 2011
1. Human rights violation in the Chittagong Hill Tracts continues. The army, paramilitary personnel and illegal Bengali settlers are involved in right violations. The attack on two Jumma villages in Longudu on 17 February is a case in point. At least 22 houses belonging to the Jumma
people and a Para Kendra (village centre) were set afire in this attack. Four Jummas were also beaten up.
2. Army in Laxmichari continues to patronize a vigilante group popularly known as Borkha Party. This group was created in 2009 by then Laxmichari Zone Commander Lt. Col. Shariful Islam. Members of this group are responsible for the death of UPDF leader Rui Khoi Marma
on 2 October 2009. The main purpose of the creation of the Borkha Party is to counter the growing influence of the UPDF.
On 25 February, the army and Borkha Party attacked a reception hosted by PCP and HWF for those students who came out successful in JSC (Junior School Certificate) and primary school examinations. At least 15 persons including women were injured. The programme was foiled.
The Borkha Party members stay in Khiram army camp under Laxmichari Zone. They are also allowed to use a club house named Anirban belonging to the army at Khiram bazaar.
The army and Borkha Party members regularly carry out joint operations in the Jumma villages and harass the villagers.
3. Political repression on UPDF and its front organisations has become a common feature of the CHT situation. Its rallies and processions are regularly attacked. The army has sealed off four unit offices of the UPDF, namely, Rajstali, Belaichari, Naniachar and Kudukchari.
The Khagrachari administration imposed ban on rallies and public meetings in Khagrachari district following the 23 February 2010 attack on Jumma inhabited areas in Khagrachari town. The decision on the ban was taken at a review meeting on law and order in which no UPDF
members were invited. This ban still continues. The ban is applicable for those parties and organisations which are not registered with the Election Commission. This is a clear case of discrimination. UPDF wrote to the district administration to inform it in writing whether
the media reports on the ban were true. But the authorities did not
bother to reply to our letter.
4. Arrest of the members of the UPDF and its front organisations has not stopped. Mikel Chakma, spokesperson of the UPDF and member secretary of the Democratic Youth Forum, was arrested by Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) from Chittagong on February 8, 2011. The JSS (Santu
faction) members in Chittagong helped the RAB to arrest him. They put two pipe guns and Yaba drugs into his bag while he was in toilet and asked RAB members to arrest him.
5. Repression on Jumma women has become a festering problem in the CHT. There is no security for them. Nowhere are they safe. They cannot go fetch water from streams, graze their cows in the field, go in the jungle to collect firewood, visit temples and relatives; they cannot
even stay home alone. Wherever they are, they are targeted for sexual assaults, especially rape, by the army and settlers. No one is spared – from 4-year old girls to 80-year old women, all are raped. Even the physically challenged girls and women are not spared.
Until and unless the army and settlers are withdrawn, human rights violations including rape and repression of Jumma women will not cease.
6. Land grabbing has also become a regular phenomenon. An attempt by illegal Bengali settlers to occupy land in Mahalchari on 5 December 2010 prompted the Jumma villagers to block Khagrachari – Rangamati link road the next day. The settlers, who were backed by the army, had to retreat in the face of protests. Similar incident also took place in Naniachar and Longudu Upazilas in Rangamati district.
7. We appeal to the Amnesty International to urge the government to take the following measures:
a. To immediately stop human rights violations in the CHT including repression of Jumma women.
b. To stop political persecution of the UPDF and its front organisations and to withdraw the ban on rallies and demonstrations in Khagrachari district.
c. To order an independent and impartial inquiry headed by a High Court judge into the 17 February Longudu attack and bring the perpetrators to justice and pay adequate compensation to the victims.
d. To stop land grabbing and return the grabbed lands to their rightful owners and to provide constitutional recognition to the customary land laws of the Jumma people.
e. To agree to receive financial assistance from European Union to rehabilitate the illegal Bengali settlers outside of the CHT.
f. To withdraw the army from the CHT.
Pradipan Khisha
Chief Organizer
UPDF Khagrachari District Unit
.............................
Source : chtnews.com
Army detains PCP leader in Naniachar
MEMBERS of the Bangladesh Army have detained Bilash Chakma, president of Rangamati Unit of the Hill Student’s Council (PCP), in Naniachar, PCP sources has said.
The PCP leader was arrested from T & T bazaar at 9am today, Saturday.
“At first, Mr Shahed, NCO of Naniachar zone, told Bilash that he had something to discuss with him and took him to a place nearby. Then a group of army men came in a pick up van and detained him.” said Binoyon Chakma, another PCP leader in Naniachar.
He said Bilash, also a candidate for HSC exams from Naniachar College, has been kept at the canteen of Naniachar zone.
Bilash Chakma was first arrested on 23 August 2010 while attending a UPDF rally in Naniachar.
However, he was released on bail a few days later.
.............................
Source : chtnews.com
The PCP leader was arrested from T & T bazaar at 9am today, Saturday.
“At first, Mr Shahed, NCO of Naniachar zone, told Bilash that he had something to discuss with him and took him to a place nearby. Then a group of army men came in a pick up van and detained him.” said Binoyon Chakma, another PCP leader in Naniachar.
He said Bilash, also a candidate for HSC exams from Naniachar College, has been kept at the canteen of Naniachar zone.
Bilash Chakma was first arrested on 23 August 2010 while attending a UPDF rally in Naniachar.
However, he was released on bail a few days later.
.............................
Source : chtnews.com
Protest rally against Laxmichari army attack
THE Hill Students Council has staged demonstrations in Khagrachari and Panchari in protest against attacks on a reception ceremony it held for students in Laxmichari today.
In Panchari, the protest demonstrators marched through College Gate and the bus station.
Later, they held a rally at College Gate where DYF leader Arpan Chakma and PCP Panchari unit leader Hari Kamal Tripura spoke.
In Khagrachari, the PCP tried to hold a protest march at Swanirbhor Bazaar, but the police prevented them.
The PCP then held a rally there.
The speakers condemned the attack on the PCP reception in Laxmichari and called for an end tomilitary rule in the CHT.
.............................
Source: chtnews.com
In Panchari, the protest demonstrators marched through College Gate and the bus station.
Later, they held a rally at College Gate where DYF leader Arpan Chakma and PCP Panchari unit leader Hari Kamal Tripura spoke.
In Khagrachari, the PCP tried to hold a protest march at Swanirbhor Bazaar, but the police prevented them.
The PCP then held a rally there.
The speakers condemned the attack on the PCP reception in Laxmichari and called for an end tomilitary rule in the CHT.
.............................
Source: chtnews.com
PCP reception for students comes under attack in Laxmichari
AT least ten persons have been injured in an attack carried out by members of the Bangladesh Army in Laxmichari under Khagrachari district.
The injured also include Aongay Marma, president of Hill Student’s Council. He received an injury in the forehead above the left eye.
According to sources in Laxmichari, the UPDF-backed Hill Students Council today threw a reception for those who passed in the Junior School Certificate (JSC) and primary school exams.
Hundreds of students and their parents participated in the reception held at Chaillyatoli under Dullyatoli Union, about 5km north of Laxmichari Upazila headquarters.
Narrating the incident, PCP president Aongay Marma said: “At about 12:30pm a group of army personnel from Laxmichari zone came in three pick up vans and surrounded us. They snatched away a video camera from us and ordered us to disperse.”
“When we refused to disperse and told them that as citizens of Bangladesh we have every right to participate in any peaceful assembly, they attacked us with batons, brickbats and gunshots.” He continued.
He said the army men were led by Laxmichari zone commander Lt. Col. Salauddin Al Murad.
Another source said the women participants had tried to defend themselves against the excesses of the army and hit them with “biong”, a traditional weaving instrument of the Jumma women.
“Two or three army personnel including Lt. Col Salauddin Al Murad might have been hurt,” he said.
The army had to fire eight rounds of gunshots before staging a retreat.
The gunshots dispersed the participants and the soldiers returned to their camp.
However, the people gathered again after the army had gone and resumed the programme.
The UPDF in a statement condemned the attack, saying, “All kinds of civil liberties and fundamental rights of the citizens are now trampled under foot by the army in CHT.”
It accused the army of pushing the CHT politics towards instability.
.............................
Source : chtnews.com
The injured also include Aongay Marma, president of Hill Student’s Council. He received an injury in the forehead above the left eye.
According to sources in Laxmichari, the UPDF-backed Hill Students Council today threw a reception for those who passed in the Junior School Certificate (JSC) and primary school exams.
Hundreds of students and their parents participated in the reception held at Chaillyatoli under Dullyatoli Union, about 5km north of Laxmichari Upazila headquarters.
Narrating the incident, PCP president Aongay Marma said: “At about 12:30pm a group of army personnel from Laxmichari zone came in three pick up vans and surrounded us. They snatched away a video camera from us and ordered us to disperse.”
“When we refused to disperse and told them that as citizens of Bangladesh we have every right to participate in any peaceful assembly, they attacked us with batons, brickbats and gunshots.” He continued.
He said the army men were led by Laxmichari zone commander Lt. Col. Salauddin Al Murad.
Another source said the women participants had tried to defend themselves against the excesses of the army and hit them with “biong”, a traditional weaving instrument of the Jumma women.
“Two or three army personnel including Lt. Col Salauddin Al Murad might have been hurt,” he said.
The army had to fire eight rounds of gunshots before staging a retreat.
The gunshots dispersed the participants and the soldiers returned to their camp.
However, the people gathered again after the army had gone and resumed the programme.
The UPDF in a statement condemned the attack, saying, “All kinds of civil liberties and fundamental rights of the citizens are now trampled under foot by the army in CHT.”
It accused the army of pushing the CHT politics towards instability.
.............................
Source : chtnews.com
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