chtnews.com
News No. 209/2009, November 24, 2009
A 21-member strong new central committee for Hill Women’s Federation
has been formed with Sonali Chakma and Konika Dewan as its president
and General Secretary.
The committee was announced today at the end of a three-day conference
that began on 21 November in Chittagong.
Over 70 delegates from all over the CHT had taken part in the seventh
conference.
Sonali Chakma has been re-elected president unanimously for the third
consecutive term, while Konika Dewan and Rina Dewan retained their
positions as General Secretary and Organising Secretary respectively.
Apart from electing a new central committee, the conference also
revised the organisation’s charter of demands and made a few
amendments to the constitution.
The conference, presided over by Sonali Chakma, expressed solidarity
with Ghilachari women who have risen in an uprising, demanding
punishment of an army personnel for sexual attack on a Jumma woman and
withdrawal of Ghilachari camp.
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Army orders one to shut his roadside shop
chtnews.com
News No. 208/2009, November 21, 2009
Army personnel have ordered Kamal Dhan Chakma, 38, to shut his shop at Jatri Chouni near Kudukchari bazaar for good and quit his business, sources say.
“The army came in the evening today and asked me whether I had documents for my business. I said I had license. Yet, the army men told me to shut my shop for ever.” a Jumma activist quoted him as saying.
Kamal Dhan Chakma’s original home is in Ugudochari under Laxmichari Upazila. He opened his shop 2/3 years ago.
News No. 208/2009, November 21, 2009
Army personnel have ordered Kamal Dhan Chakma, 38, to shut his shop at Jatri Chouni near Kudukchari bazaar for good and quit his business, sources say.
“The army came in the evening today and asked me whether I had documents for my business. I said I had license. Yet, the army men told me to shut my shop for ever.” a Jumma activist quoted him as saying.
Kamal Dhan Chakma’s original home is in Ugudochari under Laxmichari Upazila. He opened his shop 2/3 years ago.
Ghilachari women suspend road blockade
chtnews.comNews No. 207/2009, November 20, 2009
The agitating Ghilachari women have suspended the ongoing road blockade till 25 November after taking annual examinations of the school children and the suffering of the people into consideration, says a statement issued by Ghilachari Committee for Guiding Movement Against Women Repression today.
“But the protest will continue” it added.
“We are suspending the blockade till 25 November” one of the organisers told chtnews.com.
They had blocked Rangamati – Khagrachari road for four days since 17 November in protest against an attempted rape on a Jumma woman and demanding punishment of the guilty army man and withdrawal of Ghilachari camp.
The agitating Ghilachari women have suspended the ongoing road blockade till 25 November after taking annual examinations of the school children and the suffering of the people into consideration, says a statement issued by Ghilachari Committee for Guiding Movement Against Women Repression today.
“But the protest will continue” it added.
“We are suspending the blockade till 25 November” one of the organisers told chtnews.com.
They had blocked Rangamati – Khagrachari road for four days since 17 November in protest against an attempted rape on a Jumma woman and demanding punishment of the guilty army man and withdrawal of Ghilachari camp.
HWF begins its 7th central council in Chittagong
chtnews.com
News No. 206/2009, November 20, 2009
The Hill Women’s Federation has inaugurated its seventh central council with a call to resist repression of Jumma women and speed up the struggle for full autonomy in the Chittagong Hill Tracts.
The inaugural ceremony was held at Islamabadi Memorial Hall of Kadam Mobbarak High School with the hoisting of the national, UPDF and HWF flags.
The hall was packed with participants, who spilled over on to the school ground.
Advocate Bhulon Bhowmik inaugurated the council at 11:30am to the thunderous applause. In his inaugural address Mr. Bhowmik said it was Sheikh Mujibur Rahman who had set and initiated the repressive policies on CHT. “The Pahari people have their own land laws which are based on customs, but the Bangladesh state does not recognise them.” he said and demanded that this just right be recognised and protected.
Presided over by HWF president Sonali Chakma, the inaugural ceremony was also addressed by Mamun, General Secretary, Ganotantrik Front Chittagong Unit; Md. Anwar, convenor, Jatiya Chattra Dal Chittagong Unit; Sumi Chakrabarti, central committee member of Paribrajok Progoti Dal and a Masters student of Chittagong University; Rakib Uddin, a leader of Naya Ganotantric Gano Morcha; Mithun Chakma, General Secretary, Democratic Youth Forum, Ricoh Chakma, president, Hill Students’ Council and Shanti Dev Chakma, organiser, UPDF Rangamati District Unit.
HWF president Sonali Chakma expressed her solidarity with the Ghilachari women who have been enforcing road blocks, demanding punishment of an army man for attempting to rape a Jumma woman.
She said the Jumma women have become more vulnerable to sexual violence then ever. “They are nowhere safe in the CHT” she said adding, their safety and dignity can be ensured only if the army and settlers are withdrawn from CHT.
She demanded constitutional recognition to the Jumma people and their traditional land laws.
Shanti Dev Chakma said when it comes to the issue of Chittagong Hill Tracts there is no difference between the ruling national political parties such as Awami League, BNP, JP and Jammat.
“UPDF has been oppressed under all the previous governments and continue to be oppressed under the present government.” he said.
“This is because in the CHT the real government is not AL or BNP, but the army; it is the army who rule the roost, they are the final authority.” he added.
Expressing solidarity with the struggle of the Jumma people, Mamun emphasized the need for linking the struggle against national repression to the struggle against feudalism and imperialism.
“Until the struggle against imperialism and feudalism is won, there will be no let up in national repression”, he sad.
He also condemned the killing of UPDF leader Rui Khoi Marma in Laxmichari.
Md. Anwar said Bangladesh is a multi-national country. “It is not possible to find a solution to the national question under the existing state structure.” he said.
Supporting the demands of the Ghilachari women, Sumi Chakrabarti said the message of their resistance should be spread all over.
Rakib Uddin said the ruling class has ruined the country and the Jumma people should not expect much from this government.
Mithun Chakma narrated his experience of his recent visits to Panchari, Laxmichari, Naniachar and Jurachari, and said the army is the greatest threat to peace and survival of the Jumma people in CHT.
He described how Lt. Col. Sharif in Laxmichari has formed a terrorist gang -- the so-called CHTNF (Chittagong Hill Tracts National Forum) which is popularly known as Borkha Bahini or Veiled Force as its members cover their faces with Muslim veils during their actions.
Ricoh Chakma said full autonomy is the only solution to the CHT problem.
Rally
The inaugural ceremony was followed by a procession which marched to the Chittagong press club on Jamal Khan road.
An estimated 750 Jumma women took part in the procession, holding banners and placards and waving UPDF and HWF flags. They came from all over the CHT including Bandarban and belong to almost all the Jumma nationalities.
In addition, 50 Bengali sympathizers and 100 PCP and DYF members and supporters also took part in the programme.
Discussion
Later in the afternoon, a discussion on the role of women in the resistance against repression in Chittagong Hill tracts was held at the same hall room with Sonali Chakma in the chair.
The speakers included professor Mohammad Hossain Khan, joint convenor, Committee Against Fascism and Imperialism, Chittagong; professor Ferdous Ara Alim; Arup Barua, member, Bangladesh Lakhok Shibir Chittagong unit; Sadaf Nur-e-Islam, Associate professor, department of anthropology, Chittagong University; and Shanti Dev Chakma, a UPDF leader.
Professor Ferdous Ara Alim said the way the Jumma women have built up their movement is most appreciable. “My head bends down with respect when I think of it” she said.
Justifying the struggle of the Hill Women Federation, Mrs Ferdous said the Jumma women are regularly assaulted. She cited the example of Kalpana Chakma who was kidnapped by Lt. Ferdous in 1996.
Chittagong University teacher Sadaf Nur-e-Islam said “Kalpana Chakma is a symbol of resistance in the Chittagong Hill Tracts. Once we tried to name a place after Kalpana Chakma on Jahangirnagar University campus, but the university authority refused to give us permission.”
She went on to say, “We – Paharis and Bengalis -- live side by side. When I hear the news of human rights violations in CHT it reminds me of the incidents of Ekattor (Liberation war of Bangladesh in 1971).”
Arup Barua shared his experience of his visits different parts of CHT and narrated how the Jumma people are subjected to repression and inhuman and degrading treatment.
He said the movement initiated by HWF is of different kind; it is born out of resistance against repression.
Professor Hossain Khan stressed the need for a simultaneous movement in the Hills and in the plain.
Ghilachari road blockade continues: army arrests two in Kudukchari
chtnews.comNews No. 205/2009, November 19, 2009
Jumma women in Ghilachari enforced peaceful road blockade for the third consecutive day today without any untoward incidents.
Army personnel remained deployed all over the area, and in Kudukchari, which lies five kilometers south of Ghilachari on Rangamati–Khagrachari road, they have arrested two Jumma villagers from Halfchari market.
The army also ordered all the shops in Halfchari market, 8–10 in all and belonging to the Jummas, to be closed.
The arrested Jummas are Arabindu Chakma, 35, and Mulukya Chakma (34). They were taken to Kudukchari camp.
Last night the army raided a hostel of Kudukchari High School, searched the rooms and insulted its inmates.
In another incident, the army stopped Sumoti Chakma son of Shukro Kumar Chakma of Kabukchari village from entering Ghilachari bazaar at 2:15pm today. He was going to the market to buy some medicines.
Statement
The Ghilachari Committee for Guiding Movement Against Women Repression in a press statement yesterday said, “the rumour that the blockade enforcers had attacked students ofBetchari Osmania High School is completely false, fabricated and baseless. There is not an iota of truth in it.”
It went on to say: “We think a corrupt element within the army spread this rumour to attain a certain objective, and it is to divert our movement by creating a Pahari-Bengali communal riot”
Jumma women in Ghilachari enforced peaceful road blockade for the third consecutive day today without any untoward incidents.
Army personnel remained deployed all over the area, and in Kudukchari, which lies five kilometers south of Ghilachari on Rangamati–Khagrachari road, they have arrested two Jumma villagers from Halfchari market.
The army also ordered all the shops in Halfchari market, 8–10 in all and belonging to the Jummas, to be closed.
The arrested Jummas are Arabindu Chakma, 35, and Mulukya Chakma (34). They were taken to Kudukchari camp.
Last night the army raided a hostel of Kudukchari High School, searched the rooms and insulted its inmates.
In another incident, the army stopped Sumoti Chakma son of Shukro Kumar Chakma of Kabukchari village from entering Ghilachari bazaar at 2:15pm today. He was going to the market to buy some medicines.
Statement
The Ghilachari Committee for Guiding Movement Against Women Repression in a press statement yesterday said, “the rumour that the blockade enforcers had attacked students ofBetchari Osmania High School is completely false, fabricated and baseless. There is not an iota of truth in it.”
It went on to say: “We think a corrupt element within the army spread this rumour to attain a certain objective, and it is to divert our movement by creating a Pahari-Bengali communal riot”
Solidarity demonstrations for Ghilachari uprising
chtnews.com
News No. 204/2009, November 18, 2009
Solidarity demonstrations for the just cause of the Ghilachari women have been held across Chittagong Hill Tracts and in Dhaka and Chittagong.
In Khagrachari, hundreds of people, mostly women, took to the streets today to protest against yesterday’s brutal army attack on the agitating Jumma women in Ghilachari who were enforcing a peaceful road blockade, demanding punishment of an army sex offender and withdrawal of Ghilachari army camp.
The demonstration was organised by Hill Women’s Federation, Hill Students’ Council and Democratic Youth Forum.
They brought out a procession from Upazila ground at 11am, proceeded to Khagrachari bazaar and then held a rally at Mukhta Mancha.
Chandani Chakma, Vice-president of HWF Khagrachari District unit; Subir Chakma, Organising Secretary of DYF Khagrachari District Unit and Apruchi Marma, General Secretary of PCP Khagrachari District unit addressed the rally.
The speakers condemned the unprovoked attack on the Jumma women in Ghilachari and demanded that the army personnel involved in the attack be punished.
They expressed solidarity with the movement of the Jumma women in Ghilachari and urged the government to concede to their just demands.
Solidarity meetings and demonstrations have also been held in Panchari, Dighinala, Mahalchari, Kaokhali in CHT and in Dhaka and Chittagong.
Sachib Chakma released again
chtnews.com
News No. 203/2009, November 18, 2009
UPDF leader Sachib Chakma has been released from Rangamati jail, party sources say.
A judicial magistrate ordered his release yesterday. Earlier he was granted bail in all the three cases filed against him.
But he was arrested again at the jail gate on 12 November under section 54 of the Criminal Procedure Code, which gives the police arbitrary powers to arrest anyone on mere suspicion.
Sachib walked out of the jail at about 3pm today.
News No. 203/2009, November 18, 2009
UPDF leader Sachib Chakma has been released from Rangamati jail, party sources say.
A judicial magistrate ordered his release yesterday. Earlier he was granted bail in all the three cases filed against him.
But he was arrested again at the jail gate on 12 November under section 54 of the Criminal Procedure Code, which gives the police arbitrary powers to arrest anyone on mere suspicion.
Sachib walked out of the jail at about 3pm today.
DYF members beaten by JSS Santu faction
chtnews.comNews No. 202/2009, November 18, 2009
As the Jumma women were putting up a brave fight against the army during their peaceful road block in Ghilachari yesterday, the pro-government JSS (Santu) beat up three members of the Democratic Youth Forum in Chittagong.
The DYF members came under attack of the JSS men at 10:30pm when they were putting up posters announcing the Hill Women’s Federation’s upcoming central council.
The council will be held from 20 – 23 November in Chittagong.
The JSS people were 15 – 16 in number and led by Bakul Chakma, Romel Chakma and Bhaskar Chakma.
The tortured DYF members have been identified as Dipu Chakma, 22, son of Kanchon Moni Chakma of village Barazhola Para, Matiranga; Polen Chakma, 28, son of Shanti Kumar Chakma of village Baghaihat, Sajek; and Tapan Chakma, 21, son of Adi Chandra Chakma of village Harubil, Panchari.
DYF General Secretary Mithun Chakma condemned the attack on his organisation’s members, and urged the JSS to come to senses, shun violence and join the struggle of the Jumma people for survival.
He said “the JSS should have supported the Ghilachari movement instead of killing, kidnapping and beating its own brethren.”
As the Jumma women were putting up a brave fight against the army during their peaceful road block in Ghilachari yesterday, the pro-government JSS (Santu) beat up three members of the Democratic Youth Forum in Chittagong.
The DYF members came under attack of the JSS men at 10:30pm when they were putting up posters announcing the Hill Women’s Federation’s upcoming central council.
The council will be held from 20 – 23 November in Chittagong.
The JSS people were 15 – 16 in number and led by Bakul Chakma, Romel Chakma and Bhaskar Chakma.
The tortured DYF members have been identified as Dipu Chakma, 22, son of Kanchon Moni Chakma of village Barazhola Para, Matiranga; Polen Chakma, 28, son of Shanti Kumar Chakma of village Baghaihat, Sajek; and Tapan Chakma, 21, son of Adi Chandra Chakma of village Harubil, Panchari.
DYF General Secretary Mithun Chakma condemned the attack on his organisation’s members, and urged the JSS to come to senses, shun violence and join the struggle of the Jumma people for survival.
He said “the JSS should have supported the Ghilachari movement instead of killing, kidnapping and beating its own brethren.”
Ghilachari road blockade: 7 injured in army and settler attack
chtnews.com
News No. 201/2009, November 17, 2009: 9:45pm
At least 7 persons including 5 Jumma women were wounded as the army attacked them in a bid to break a peaceful road block set up by Ghilachari Committee for Guiding Movement Against Women Repression today, sources said.
Three of the injured have been admitted to Rangamati Sadar Hospital with serious injuries.
They have been identified as Maya Chakma, a class nine student of Baro Mahapuram High School, Chandrahela Chakma (40) wife of Suresh Chakma of village Kudukchari Nich Para and Dev Rani Chakma (45) of village Kudukchari Headman Para.
Maya Chakma’s condition has been stated to be critical as she has sustained injuries on her head.
Other injured women are Manti Chakma, a class nine student of Baro Mahapuram High School and Zhinu Chakma (35) wife of Sumati Lal Chakma of village Hazachari Pachchim Para.
These five Jumma women were wounded at Kudukchari when the army led by the 2-IC (Second-in-Command) of Naniachar zone resorted to indiscriminate baton charges in retaliation for stopping his boss’s vehicle in the morning.
The road block was enforced by Jumma women under the banner of “Ghilachari Committee for Guiding Movement Against Women Repression”
They were demanding punishment of an army man involved in an incident of attempted rape on a Jumma woman on 8 November and withdrawal of Ghilachari army camp to which he belongs.
Many vehicles remained stranded on Khagrachari – Rangamati road as the blockade began at 9am.
In the morning, there was chase and counter-chase between the army and the stick-wielding Jumma women.
In Bogachari, a few kilometers north-east of Ghilachari, some settlers spread rumour that one of their fellows were attacked and injured by the Jummas in Ghilachari.
This instigated the settlers who came out of their homes and attacked Anil Chakma son of Nandi Kumar Chakma of village Maischari. He was left unconscious after heavy beating. Later, the Additional District Magistrate sent him to Rangamati for treatment.
Another unnamed Jumma was also injured when the army beat him up at Atharo Mile area on Khagrachari – Rangamati road. He was returning from Khagrachari on foot.
The settlers also tried to attack the Jumma women, but when they saw them in large numbers and armed with sticks, axe, dao (a kind of knife) and beyong (weaving tool), they went back.
In the afternoon, some army personnel also tried to attack a group of Jumma women at Ghilachari Buddhist temple, but they were resisted.
Meanwhile, UPDF said the army has imposed an undeclared curfew in and around Kudukchari bazaar and no one is being allowed to move in and out. Many have been trapped there.
Earlier in the afternoon, an army captain from Kudukchari camp entered UPDF office at Kudukchari and threatened Sona Moni Chakma, a UPDF member, not to get involve in the road block.
Another source from Naniachar told chtnews.com that the C.O. had got 8 settlers – 6 women and 2 men – admitted to the hospital with no injuries. He then forced the attending doctors and the nurses out of the room.
“Many believe that there is something on his mind. And it is that he wants to show that these people have been injured in attacks by Jummas.” the source said.
UPDF’s Shanti Dev Chakma and Hill Women’s Federation president Sonali Chakma condemned the attack on Jumma women who were enforcing a peaceful road blockade to realize their just demands.
News No. 201/2009, November 17, 2009: 9:45pm
At least 7 persons including 5 Jumma women were wounded as the army attacked them in a bid to break a peaceful road block set up by Ghilachari Committee for Guiding Movement Against Women Repression today, sources said.
Three of the injured have been admitted to Rangamati Sadar Hospital with serious injuries.
They have been identified as Maya Chakma, a class nine student of Baro Mahapuram High School, Chandrahela Chakma (40) wife of Suresh Chakma of village Kudukchari Nich Para and Dev Rani Chakma (45) of village Kudukchari Headman Para.
Maya Chakma’s condition has been stated to be critical as she has sustained injuries on her head.
Other injured women are Manti Chakma, a class nine student of Baro Mahapuram High School and Zhinu Chakma (35) wife of Sumati Lal Chakma of village Hazachari Pachchim Para.
These five Jumma women were wounded at Kudukchari when the army led by the 2-IC (Second-in-Command) of Naniachar zone resorted to indiscriminate baton charges in retaliation for stopping his boss’s vehicle in the morning.
The road block was enforced by Jumma women under the banner of “Ghilachari Committee for Guiding Movement Against Women Repression”
They were demanding punishment of an army man involved in an incident of attempted rape on a Jumma woman on 8 November and withdrawal of Ghilachari army camp to which he belongs.
Many vehicles remained stranded on Khagrachari – Rangamati road as the blockade began at 9am.
In the morning, there was chase and counter-chase between the army and the stick-wielding Jumma women.
In Bogachari, a few kilometers north-east of Ghilachari, some settlers spread rumour that one of their fellows were attacked and injured by the Jummas in Ghilachari.
This instigated the settlers who came out of their homes and attacked Anil Chakma son of Nandi Kumar Chakma of village Maischari. He was left unconscious after heavy beating. Later, the Additional District Magistrate sent him to Rangamati for treatment.
Another unnamed Jumma was also injured when the army beat him up at Atharo Mile area on Khagrachari – Rangamati road. He was returning from Khagrachari on foot.
The settlers also tried to attack the Jumma women, but when they saw them in large numbers and armed with sticks, axe, dao (a kind of knife) and beyong (weaving tool), they went back.
In the afternoon, some army personnel also tried to attack a group of Jumma women at Ghilachari Buddhist temple, but they were resisted.
Meanwhile, UPDF said the army has imposed an undeclared curfew in and around Kudukchari bazaar and no one is being allowed to move in and out. Many have been trapped there.
Earlier in the afternoon, an army captain from Kudukchari camp entered UPDF office at Kudukchari and threatened Sona Moni Chakma, a UPDF member, not to get involve in the road block.
Another source from Naniachar told chtnews.com that the C.O. had got 8 settlers – 6 women and 2 men – admitted to the hospital with no injuries. He then forced the attending doctors and the nurses out of the room.
“Many believe that there is something on his mind. And it is that he wants to show that these people have been injured in attacks by Jummas.” the source said.
UPDF’s Shanti Dev Chakma and Hill Women’s Federation president Sonali Chakma condemned the attack on Jumma women who were enforcing a peaceful road blockade to realize their just demands.
Naniachar Massacre Day observed
chtnews.com
News No. 200/2009, November 17, 2009
The Hill Students Council today observed Naniachar Massacre Day in Naniachar as the local administration imposed section 144 on parts of the town.
About 1,000 participated in a commemoration rally held at Rest House ground at 12 noon. Earlier a procession was taken out and floral wreaths were placed before a makeshift monument set up for the martyred.
Presided over by Bilash Chakma, president of PCP Naniachar Unit, the rally was addressed by Mithun Chakma, General Secretary of the Democratic Youth Forum, Ricoh Chakma, president of Hill Students’ Council and Juthika Chakma, convenor of HWF Rangamati District branch.
Besides, Sushil Jibon Chakma spoke on behalf of the martyred families.
The speakers urged the government to publish the inquiry report on Naniachar massacre and punish those involved in the gruesome killing.
At least 36 Jummas were killing in this massacre.
News No. 200/2009, November 17, 2009
The Hill Students Council today observed Naniachar Massacre Day in Naniachar as the local administration imposed section 144 on parts of the town.
About 1,000 participated in a commemoration rally held at Rest House ground at 12 noon. Earlier a procession was taken out and floral wreaths were placed before a makeshift monument set up for the martyred.
Presided over by Bilash Chakma, president of PCP Naniachar Unit, the rally was addressed by Mithun Chakma, General Secretary of the Democratic Youth Forum, Ricoh Chakma, president of Hill Students’ Council and Juthika Chakma, convenor of HWF Rangamati District branch.
Besides, Sushil Jibon Chakma spoke on behalf of the martyred families.
The speakers urged the government to publish the inquiry report on Naniachar massacre and punish those involved in the gruesome killing.
At least 36 Jummas were killing in this massacre.
JSS Santu faction kidnaps DYF leader
chtnews.com
News No. 199/2009, November 17, 2009
A leader of the Democratic Youth Forum has been kidnapped by members of the Jana Samhati Samiti (Santu faction) in Rangamati.
Sources said Shakyo Muni Chakma (28) son of Binod Karbari of village Indrama Chara under Subholong Union was kidnapped from Samaresh Dewan’s Saw Mill at Samataghat in Rangamati town at around 10am.
He is the member secretary of Barkal Upazila Unit of Democratic Youth Forum, a front organisation of the United Peoples’ Democratic Front (UPDF).
The kidnappers were led by JSS (Santu faction) members Padmalochon Chakma, Chinese Chakma, Fodangtang Chakma and Foren Chakma.
They demanded Taka 500,000 ($ 7142.85) as ransom from his relatives.
News No. 199/2009, November 17, 2009
A leader of the Democratic Youth Forum has been kidnapped by members of the Jana Samhati Samiti (Santu faction) in Rangamati.
Sources said Shakyo Muni Chakma (28) son of Binod Karbari of village Indrama Chara under Subholong Union was kidnapped from Samaresh Dewan’s Saw Mill at Samataghat in Rangamati town at around 10am.
He is the member secretary of Barkal Upazila Unit of Democratic Youth Forum, a front organisation of the United Peoples’ Democratic Front (UPDF).
The kidnappers were led by JSS (Santu faction) members Padmalochon Chakma, Chinese Chakma, Fodangtang Chakma and Foren Chakma.
They demanded Taka 500,000 ($ 7142.85) as ransom from his relatives.
Section 144 imposed in Naniachar
chtnews.com
News No. 198/2009, November 17, 2009
The local administration last night imposed section 144 to prevent from taking place a planned rally in commemoration of those killed in Naniachar massacre 16 years ago.
The Hill Students’ Council, Hill Women’s Federation and Democratic Youth Forum decided to hold the rally at Upazila ground, but the UNO ordered the police to dismantle the stage being prepared there.
“No public meetings, rallies and processions are permitted within 200 yards of the Upazila” the announcement said.
Later, the organisers reached an agreement with the UNO and shifted the venue to Amgashtola area.
Nanicahar massacre took place on 17 November 1993. About 36 Jumma people were killed when the Bengali settlers and the Bangladesh army personnel attacked them in Naniachari bazaar.
News No. 198/2009, November 17, 2009
The local administration last night imposed section 144 to prevent from taking place a planned rally in commemoration of those killed in Naniachar massacre 16 years ago.
The Hill Students’ Council, Hill Women’s Federation and Democratic Youth Forum decided to hold the rally at Upazila ground, but the UNO ordered the police to dismantle the stage being prepared there.
“No public meetings, rallies and processions are permitted within 200 yards of the Upazila” the announcement said.
Later, the organisers reached an agreement with the UNO and shifted the venue to Amgashtola area.
Nanicahar massacre took place on 17 November 1993. About 36 Jumma people were killed when the Bengali settlers and the Bangladesh army personnel attacked them in Naniachari bazaar.
Attempted rape in Ghilachari: protest rally held
chtnews.com
News No. 197/2009, November 17, 2009
The women of Ghilachari continued their peaceful agitation yesterday, protesting against the attempted rape on Juboni Chakma.
They held a rally at Ghilachari bazaar under the banner of the Ghilachari Committee for Guiding Movement Against Women Repression. An estimated 1,000 women participated.
They will enforce another round of road blockade today.
Army and police personnel including policewomen tried to intimidate the participants of the rally, but stick-wielding women chased them away.
Many including the OC of Naniachar police station, an Army Habilder, Naniachar Upazila chairman Pritimoy Chakma and Ghilachari UP chairman Mitu Chakma were clubbed by the women.
They also waved ragged pinon (lower-part garment of Chakma women) at them as a mark of protest.
Condemning the sexual attack on Juboni Chakma, the movement leaders demanded exemplary punishment of the guilty army man and immediate withdrawal of Ghilachari army camp from their area.
The rally, which began at 1pm and ended at 3:30pm without a break, was addressed by Rina Chakma, Sabina Chakma, Romita Chakma, Ittugi Chakma, Kajoli Chakma, Sumoti Chakma and Zhinu Prabha Chakma – all housewives and first-time speakers.
News No. 197/2009, November 17, 2009
The women of Ghilachari continued their peaceful agitation yesterday, protesting against the attempted rape on Juboni Chakma.
They held a rally at Ghilachari bazaar under the banner of the Ghilachari Committee for Guiding Movement Against Women Repression. An estimated 1,000 women participated.
They will enforce another round of road blockade today.
Army and police personnel including policewomen tried to intimidate the participants of the rally, but stick-wielding women chased them away.
Many including the OC of Naniachar police station, an Army Habilder, Naniachar Upazila chairman Pritimoy Chakma and Ghilachari UP chairman Mitu Chakma were clubbed by the women.
They also waved ragged pinon (lower-part garment of Chakma women) at them as a mark of protest.
Condemning the sexual attack on Juboni Chakma, the movement leaders demanded exemplary punishment of the guilty army man and immediate withdrawal of Ghilachari army camp from their area.
The rally, which began at 1pm and ended at 3:30pm without a break, was addressed by Rina Chakma, Sabina Chakma, Romita Chakma, Ittugi Chakma, Kajoli Chakma, Sumoti Chakma and Zhinu Prabha Chakma – all housewives and first-time speakers.
DYF Naniachar Upazila Committee formed
chtnews.com
News No. 196/2009, November 16, 2009
Democratic Youth Front’s Naniachar Upazila committee was formed yesterday with Priya Lal Chakma and Miltan Chakma elected as president and general secretary respectively, DYF sources said.
The 19-member strong committee was formed at a council session held at Naniachar College under the slogan “Unite the Youth for Self-determination”.
A total of 80 activists of the DYF active in Naniachar attended the session, which was also participated by DYF General Secretary Mithun Chakma, Organising Secretary Michael Chakma, PCP member Pruching Thoai Marma and Naniachar PCP president Bilash Chakma.
After the council session a rally was held which was addressed by HWF Naniachar branch president Juthika Chakma and Priya Lal Chakma.
News No. 196/2009, November 16, 2009
Democratic Youth Front’s Naniachar Upazila committee was formed yesterday with Priya Lal Chakma and Miltan Chakma elected as president and general secretary respectively, DYF sources said.
The 19-member strong committee was formed at a council session held at Naniachar College under the slogan “Unite the Youth for Self-determination”.
A total of 80 activists of the DYF active in Naniachar attended the session, which was also participated by DYF General Secretary Mithun Chakma, Organising Secretary Michael Chakma, PCP member Pruching Thoai Marma and Naniachar PCP president Bilash Chakma.
After the council session a rally was held which was addressed by HWF Naniachar branch president Juthika Chakma and Priya Lal Chakma.
One tortured, meditation hut ransacked in Baghaihat
chtnews.com
News No. 195/2009, November 15, 2009
An elderly Jumma villager was detained and tortured in Baghaihat zone under Rangamati district on 13 November, sources said.
A group of army personnel from Baghaihat zone raided the village of Balughat at around 8am and picked up Pathor Moni Chakma (72) son of late Narammya Chakma from his home.
He was detained till 3pm and tortured. He was released after forcing him to sign on a blank sheet of paper.
Mr. Chakma’s son Rupan Chakma is an active member of the UPDF.
Meditation hut ransacked
On 10 November, a group of army personnel led by Subedar Selim and Habildar Iqbal (44 Bengal) from Majalong army camp raided Porihola Chug Arannyo Kuthir or jungle hut (meditation centre) and ransacked it.
News No. 195/2009, November 15, 2009
An elderly Jumma villager was detained and tortured in Baghaihat zone under Rangamati district on 13 November, sources said.
A group of army personnel from Baghaihat zone raided the village of Balughat at around 8am and picked up Pathor Moni Chakma (72) son of late Narammya Chakma from his home.
He was detained till 3pm and tortured. He was released after forcing him to sign on a blank sheet of paper.
Mr. Chakma’s son Rupan Chakma is an active member of the UPDF.
Meditation hut ransacked
On 10 November, a group of army personnel led by Subedar Selim and Habildar Iqbal (44 Bengal) from Majalong army camp raided Porihola Chug Arannyo Kuthir or jungle hut (meditation centre) and ransacked it.
HWF Rangamati Unit Committee formed
chtnews.com
News No. 194/2009, November 15, 2009
An eleven-member committee for Hill Women’s Federation Rangamati District Unit was formed yesterday with Juthika Chakma and Sadhana Chakma elected as convenor and member secretary respectively, HWF sources said.
The committee was formed at a meeting held at UPDF office at Kudukchari in Rangamati.
HWF Acting General Secretary Konika Dewan and Domocratic Youth Forum leader Alakesh Chakma spoke at the meeting as special guests.
HWF members and supporters from various parts of Rangamati district, including members of Marma and Tripura communities, took part in the meeting.
The HWF will hold its seventh central council from 20 – 23 November in Chittagong.
News No. 194/2009, November 15, 2009
An eleven-member committee for Hill Women’s Federation Rangamati District Unit was formed yesterday with Juthika Chakma and Sadhana Chakma elected as convenor and member secretary respectively, HWF sources said.
The committee was formed at a meeting held at UPDF office at Kudukchari in Rangamati.
HWF Acting General Secretary Konika Dewan and Domocratic Youth Forum leader Alakesh Chakma spoke at the meeting as special guests.
HWF members and supporters from various parts of Rangamati district, including members of Marma and Tripura communities, took part in the meeting.
The HWF will hold its seventh central council from 20 – 23 November in Chittagong.
Ghilachari bazaar committee president threatened
chtnews.com
News No. 193/2009, November 15, 2009
The Commanding Officer (CO) of Naniachar zone has threatened Ananta Bikash Chakma, president of Ghilachari bazaar committee, sources say.
The CO and Major Mehedi came to Ghilachari bazaar in the morning yesterday and accused Ananta of providing leadership to the recent uprising of the Jumma women in Ghilachari.
“Since I have come here, I will do something and then leave. And I am informed that it is you who is behind all this (uprising)” the CO is reported to have told Ananta Chakma.
Major Mehedi threatened him, saying “We know what you do. We have got all the reports. So be careful!”
News No. 193/2009, November 15, 2009
The Commanding Officer (CO) of Naniachar zone has threatened Ananta Bikash Chakma, president of Ghilachari bazaar committee, sources say.
The CO and Major Mehedi came to Ghilachari bazaar in the morning yesterday and accused Ananta of providing leadership to the recent uprising of the Jumma women in Ghilachari.
“Since I have come here, I will do something and then leave. And I am informed that it is you who is behind all this (uprising)” the CO is reported to have told Ananta Chakma.
Major Mehedi threatened him, saying “We know what you do. We have got all the reports. So be careful!”
Sachib Chakma’s wife demands his release
chtnews.com
News No. 192/2009, November 14, 2009
UPDF leader Sachib Chakma’s wife Ms Amita Chakma has demanded his immediate release, claiming that her husband is innocent. (photo courtesy Anik Chakma, Rangamati)
She made the demand while speaking at a press conference in Rangamati town.
Held at Rangamati press club at 3pm, the press conference was also attended by Sachib Chakma’s younger sister Shanti Bala Chakma and HWF leader Juthika Chakma.
In a written text, Ms Amita, the headmaster of East Ghilachari Non-government Primary School, said the cases filed against Sachib Chakma are politically motivated. “They were filed to harass him politically” she said.
“I think he was arrested because he criticized the CHT accord and opposed the destructive politics of a political party.”
She termed the re-arrest of Sachib Chakma at Rangamati jail gate after he was ordered to be released by the court as inhuman and contrary to the provisions of Bangladesh constitution, human rights laws and natural justice.
“It is also tantamount to contempt of court.” she added.
Refuting police statement that Sachib was arrested because they considered him a threat to the law and order of the district, she said “this argument of the police is laughable; Sachib Chakma can never be a threat to law and order because he is a responsible political leader”.
“I think he was arrested at the behest of his political opponents.” he said.
Settler grabs land in Kobakhali
chtnews.com
News No. 191/2009, November 14, 2009
A Bengali settler has grabbed 1.2 acres of registered land belonging to Niron Chakma, 40, in Kobakhali village under Pablakhali Mouza in Dighinala.
Mr. Niron Chakma (son of Nitipurna Chakma) alleged that one Yunusur Rahman s/o Anisur Rahman had begun ploughing the land since 5pm on 12 November.
By the night the same day he had prepared the land for planting.
Producing documents relating to the said land, Niron said, “The land is registered in the name of my father, the Khatian No. of which is 90.”
He further said that a case is still pending in the court of Judicial Magistrate and that in an arbitration facilitated by the authorities of Dighinala cantonment earlier it was clearly stated that the said land belongs to the Paharis (Jumma).
News No. 191/2009, November 14, 2009
A Bengali settler has grabbed 1.2 acres of registered land belonging to Niron Chakma, 40, in Kobakhali village under Pablakhali Mouza in Dighinala.
Mr. Niron Chakma (son of Nitipurna Chakma) alleged that one Yunusur Rahman s/o Anisur Rahman had begun ploughing the land since 5pm on 12 November.
By the night the same day he had prepared the land for planting.
Producing documents relating to the said land, Niron said, “The land is registered in the name of my father, the Khatian No. of which is 90.”
He further said that a case is still pending in the court of Judicial Magistrate and that in an arbitration facilitated by the authorities of Dighinala cantonment earlier it was clearly stated that the said land belongs to the Paharis (Jumma).
Army searches houses in Ghilachari
chtnews.com
News No. 190/2009, November 14, 2009
Army personnel raided and searched three houses in Ghilachari last night in an apparent bid to intimidate the participants of an uprising sparked by an incident of sexual violence involving a member of Bangladesh Army.
According to sources, the soldiers searched the house of Angad Chakma, a member of Bangladesh Navy, whose wife Poheli Chakma has played an important role in the uprising.
The soldiers entered their house in a threatening manner, asked her silly questions about their marriage and took away her husband’s photographs apparently to pressure him to stop her from taking part in the movement.
The other two houses the soldiers searched include Amar Jibon Chakma, ex-chairman of Ghilachari Union Parishad, and Jogendra Chakma, incumbent member of Ward No. 7 under Ghilachari Union.
A resident of Ghilachari told chtnews.com by mobile phone that “the army is still there in the area.”
“My view is that the aim of the deployment of the army is to intimidate and coerce the people into retreat.” he commented.
News No. 190/2009, November 14, 2009
Army personnel raided and searched three houses in Ghilachari last night in an apparent bid to intimidate the participants of an uprising sparked by an incident of sexual violence involving a member of Bangladesh Army.
According to sources, the soldiers searched the house of Angad Chakma, a member of Bangladesh Navy, whose wife Poheli Chakma has played an important role in the uprising.
The soldiers entered their house in a threatening manner, asked her silly questions about their marriage and took away her husband’s photographs apparently to pressure him to stop her from taking part in the movement.
The other two houses the soldiers searched include Amar Jibon Chakma, ex-chairman of Ghilachari Union Parishad, and Jogendra Chakma, incumbent member of Ward No. 7 under Ghilachari Union.
A resident of Ghilachari told chtnews.com by mobile phone that “the army is still there in the area.”
“My view is that the aim of the deployment of the army is to intimidate and coerce the people into retreat.” he commented.
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