chtnews.com
News No. 19/2010, February 01, 2010
Fresh tension between Jummas and illegal Bengali settlers has been reported from Sajek as a Bengali businessman has been reportedly beaten up by a group of settlers.
Sources from Baghaihat said Lokman, a Bengali businessman from Korengatoli bazaar, was carrying Joticharya Chakma (32) on his motorbike on payment. (Joticharya Chakma is a resident of Simanachara village in Sajek and his father’s name is Barun Chakma).
They were bound for Baghaichari via Baghaihat to Korengatoli road. However they were stopped at Gangaram Doar by a group of settlers at around 12:30pm.
Sensing imminent danger, Joticharya Chakma, an active member of Sajek Land Protection Committee, ran away, leaving Lokman there.
The settlers beat up Lokman for carrying a Jumma on his motorbike.
When this news spread in the area, hundreds of Jumma villagers gathered at Gangaram Doar and staged demonstration, demanding punishment of those responsible for the attack on Lokman and Joticharya.
They suspended their agitation only when the local police personnel told them that a senior police officer would visit the area in the afternoon.
The Jummas have been boycotting Baghaihat bazaar since 18 January to put pressure on the government to meet their demands including stoppage of land grabbing and withdrawal of the army and settlers.
In reprisal, the settlers forced the Bengalis to suspend passenger jeep service to and from Baghaihat and Mazalong.
The Jummas responded to this measure by blocking Dighinala – Baghaihat road.
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Bannyachola villagers resist Borkha Party terrorists
chtnews.com
News No. 18/2010, January 31, 2010
The villagers of Bannyachola under Laxmichari Sadar Union have resisted Borkha Party terrorists and succeeded in filing a criminal case with Laxmichari police station against them.
A resident of Bannychola told chtnews.com that the military-backed Borkha Party terrorists had ordered all the villagers to attend a rally they organised against United Peoples’ Democratic Front (UPDF) yesterday.
The terrorists also stopped public vehicles bound for Manikchari bazaar with the support of the army and police personnel and forced the passengers to attend the rally.
However, the villagers of Bannyachola defied their order and none from this village attended the rally.
In reprisal, a group of 6-7 Borkha Party terrorists led by Nirmal Kanti Chakma and Kapil Sen Chakma raided Bannyachola today and began terrorising the people.
The terrorists, who were armed with firearms, ordered the villagers not to leave the village without their permission and to close all the shops in the village.
They also prevented the villagers from driving their vehicles and ordered them to deposit the keys of the vehicles with them.
This proved too much for the villagers, who lodged a strong protest with Bannyachola army camp and filed a criminal case with Laxmichari police station against the Borkha Party terrorists.
Borkha Party has been created by Laxmichari zone commander Lt. Col. Shariful Islam to weaken UPDF in the area.
Since their creation in July last year, the Borkha Party terrorists have been engaged in criminal activities such as looting, kidnapping, snatching and extortion.
Some reliable sources said the Borkha Party also has secret connection with Santu Larma faction of the JSS.
They further said that the Santu Larma faction of the JSS had supplied them with two automatic weapons a few days ago.
This has been corroborated by eyewitnesses in Laxmichari who saw these weapons in their hands.
Before the addition of these two automatic weapons, the Borkha Party terrorists had only LGs in their arsenal.
News No. 18/2010, January 31, 2010
The villagers of Bannyachola under Laxmichari Sadar Union have resisted Borkha Party terrorists and succeeded in filing a criminal case with Laxmichari police station against them.
A resident of Bannychola told chtnews.com that the military-backed Borkha Party terrorists had ordered all the villagers to attend a rally they organised against United Peoples’ Democratic Front (UPDF) yesterday.
The terrorists also stopped public vehicles bound for Manikchari bazaar with the support of the army and police personnel and forced the passengers to attend the rally.
However, the villagers of Bannyachola defied their order and none from this village attended the rally.
In reprisal, a group of 6-7 Borkha Party terrorists led by Nirmal Kanti Chakma and Kapil Sen Chakma raided Bannyachola today and began terrorising the people.
The terrorists, who were armed with firearms, ordered the villagers not to leave the village without their permission and to close all the shops in the village.
They also prevented the villagers from driving their vehicles and ordered them to deposit the keys of the vehicles with them.
This proved too much for the villagers, who lodged a strong protest with Bannyachola army camp and filed a criminal case with Laxmichari police station against the Borkha Party terrorists.
Borkha Party has been created by Laxmichari zone commander Lt. Col. Shariful Islam to weaken UPDF in the area.
Since their creation in July last year, the Borkha Party terrorists have been engaged in criminal activities such as looting, kidnapping, snatching and extortion.
Some reliable sources said the Borkha Party also has secret connection with Santu Larma faction of the JSS.
They further said that the Santu Larma faction of the JSS had supplied them with two automatic weapons a few days ago.
This has been corroborated by eyewitnesses in Laxmichari who saw these weapons in their hands.
Before the addition of these two automatic weapons, the Borkha Party terrorists had only LGs in their arsenal.
“It was not an attack, it was merely a protest” – says a Reformists JSS leader
chtnews.com
News No. 17/2010, January 31, 2010
A top ranking leader of the Reformist faction of the Jana Samhati Samiti has said the alleged attack on Santu Larma on 27 January was actually not an attack; it was merely a popular protest against his destructive policies that keep the intra-Jumma conflict alive.
“People are fed up with his politics of killings and kidnappings. He is responsible for the killing of hundreds of Jumma activists including former General Secretary of the PCJSS and a veteran guerrilla leader, Mr. Chandra Shekhor Chakma.” the Reformist leader told chtnews.com requesting anonymity for security concern.
“I don’t fear death, but I think I should be discreet because there is nothing Santu Larma cannot do to eliminate his political opponents.” he added.
He said Mr. Larma had personally ordered his gunmen to shoot and kill Chandra Shekhor Chakma, his long-time aide and comrade-in arm.
Chandra Shekhor Chakma was shot and wounded, and died a few months after the shooting incident.
His wife filed an attempt to murder case against Santu Larma. However, he has secured bail from the High Court.
Larma’s gunmen also shot and wounded Aungshuman Chakma, another JSS leader, and attacked Mintu Chakma, a NGO activist, with sticks and iron rods in Rangamati town.
Asked to comment on JSS allegation that UPDF was behind the attack on Santu Larma, UPDF leader Shanti Dev Chakma said, “This is completely baseless. Mr. Larma made this claim without investigating the matter.”
He asked: “Why should we attack him, since he is already dead, politically and ideologically?”
He said people are genuinely angry with him because scores of innocent people had to suffer because of him.
“He is the one who initiated division and conflicts within the Jumma movement and pursued scorched earth policy in his attempt to eliminate UPDF and his political opponents.” Shant said.
News No. 17/2010, January 31, 2010
A top ranking leader of the Reformist faction of the Jana Samhati Samiti has said the alleged attack on Santu Larma on 27 January was actually not an attack; it was merely a popular protest against his destructive policies that keep the intra-Jumma conflict alive.
“People are fed up with his politics of killings and kidnappings. He is responsible for the killing of hundreds of Jumma activists including former General Secretary of the PCJSS and a veteran guerrilla leader, Mr. Chandra Shekhor Chakma.” the Reformist leader told chtnews.com requesting anonymity for security concern.
“I don’t fear death, but I think I should be discreet because there is nothing Santu Larma cannot do to eliminate his political opponents.” he added.
He said Mr. Larma had personally ordered his gunmen to shoot and kill Chandra Shekhor Chakma, his long-time aide and comrade-in arm.
Chandra Shekhor Chakma was shot and wounded, and died a few months after the shooting incident.
His wife filed an attempt to murder case against Santu Larma. However, he has secured bail from the High Court.
Larma’s gunmen also shot and wounded Aungshuman Chakma, another JSS leader, and attacked Mintu Chakma, a NGO activist, with sticks and iron rods in Rangamati town.
Asked to comment on JSS allegation that UPDF was behind the attack on Santu Larma, UPDF leader Shanti Dev Chakma said, “This is completely baseless. Mr. Larma made this claim without investigating the matter.”
He asked: “Why should we attack him, since he is already dead, politically and ideologically?”
He said people are genuinely angry with him because scores of innocent people had to suffer because of him.
“He is the one who initiated division and conflicts within the Jumma movement and pursued scorched earth policy in his attempt to eliminate UPDF and his political opponents.” Shant said.
Borkha Party terrorists kidnap yet another person
chtnews.com
News No. 16/2010, January 31, 2010
The military-backed Borkha Party terrorists kidnapped another person in Laxmichari yesterday.
According to sources, Borkha Party terrorists led by Nirmal Kanti Chakma and Kapil Sen Chakma kidnapped Ratna Sen Chakma (35), husband of Laxmichari Upazila Lady Vice Chairman Ms Sagarika Chakma, from Laxmichari bus station.
Mr. Chakma went there to see one of his relatives off. The incident took place around 3pm. However, he was released in the evening, sources said.
His kidnapping comes barely seven hours after the kidnapping of UPDF activist Rashik Chandra Chakma alias Agata by the same Borkha Party terrorists.
Mr. Ratna Sen Chakma is a resident of Dewan Para under Dullyatali Union.
News No. 16/2010, January 31, 2010
The military-backed Borkha Party terrorists kidnapped another person in Laxmichari yesterday.
According to sources, Borkha Party terrorists led by Nirmal Kanti Chakma and Kapil Sen Chakma kidnapped Ratna Sen Chakma (35), husband of Laxmichari Upazila Lady Vice Chairman Ms Sagarika Chakma, from Laxmichari bus station.
Mr. Chakma went there to see one of his relatives off. The incident took place around 3pm. However, he was released in the evening, sources said.
His kidnapping comes barely seven hours after the kidnapping of UPDF activist Rashik Chandra Chakma alias Agata by the same Borkha Party terrorists.
Mr. Ratna Sen Chakma is a resident of Dewan Para under Dullyatali Union.
Jumma organisatoins protest against kidnapping of UPDF activist
chtnews.com
News No. 15/2010, January 30, 2010
Three Jumma organisations have demanded immediate arrest of military-backed Borkha Party terrorists, active in Laxmichari in Khagrachari district.
The Hill Women’s Federation, Hill Students’ Council and Democratic Youth Forum made this demand at a rally held at Shapla Chattar in Khagrachari town today. (Photo attached)
They were protesting the kidnapping of UPDF activist Rashik Chandra Chakma alias Agata by military-backed Borkha Party terrorists in Laxmichari.
The rally was addressed by Apruchi Marma, General Secretary of PCP Khagrachari District Unit; Subir Chakma, Organising Secretary of DYF Khagrachari District Unit and Madri Chakma, General Secretary of HWF Khagrachari Unit.
The speakers alleged that Laxmichari zone commander Lt. Col. Shariful Islam is providing shelter to the Borkha Party terrorists.
“The Borkha Party terrorists are carrying out their criminal activities with direct support from the army. They are collecting tolls near an army camp in Laxmichari. They regularly raid the homes of the UPDF members and supporters, torture them and kidnap them.” Subir Chakma said.
He said the army had created the Borkha Party to weaken UPDF in the area. “But the people will crush them as they did with army collaborators in the past.”
Madri Chakma and Apruchi Marma condemned the kidnapping of Rashik Chandra Chakma and demanded his immediate release.
They urged the government to disband the Borkha Party, arrest its members and put them on trial for their involvement in the murder of UPDF leader Rui khoi Marma and other criminal activities.
The rally was preceded by a procession which paraded Khagrachari town.
News No. 15/2010, January 30, 2010
Three Jumma organisations have demanded immediate arrest of military-backed Borkha Party terrorists, active in Laxmichari in Khagrachari district.
The Hill Women’s Federation, Hill Students’ Council and Democratic Youth Forum made this demand at a rally held at Shapla Chattar in Khagrachari town today. (Photo attached)
They were protesting the kidnapping of UPDF activist Rashik Chandra Chakma alias Agata by military-backed Borkha Party terrorists in Laxmichari.
The rally was addressed by Apruchi Marma, General Secretary of PCP Khagrachari District Unit; Subir Chakma, Organising Secretary of DYF Khagrachari District Unit and Madri Chakma, General Secretary of HWF Khagrachari Unit.
The speakers alleged that Laxmichari zone commander Lt. Col. Shariful Islam is providing shelter to the Borkha Party terrorists.
“The Borkha Party terrorists are carrying out their criminal activities with direct support from the army. They are collecting tolls near an army camp in Laxmichari. They regularly raid the homes of the UPDF members and supporters, torture them and kidnap them.” Subir Chakma said.
He said the army had created the Borkha Party to weaken UPDF in the area. “But the people will crush them as they did with army collaborators in the past.”
Madri Chakma and Apruchi Marma condemned the kidnapping of Rashik Chandra Chakma and demanded his immediate release.
They urged the government to disband the Borkha Party, arrest its members and put them on trial for their involvement in the murder of UPDF leader Rui khoi Marma and other criminal activities.
The rally was preceded by a procession which paraded Khagrachari town.
Borkha Party men kidnap UPDF activist in Laxmichari
chtnews.com
News No. 14/2010, January 30, 2010
An activist of the United Peoples’ Democratic Front (UPDF) has been kidnapped in Laxmichari, Khagrachari, UPDF sources say.
A group of military-backed Borkha Party men led by Kapil Sen Chakma, Phorachan Chakma and Nirmal Kanti Chakma raided Hazachari Master Para village under Dullyatali Union last night and picked up Rashik Chandra Chakma alias Agata (age 20) son of Mongal Dhan Chakma, UPDF Khagrachari District Unit Organiser Niron Chakma said.
He has been handed over to the army in Laxmichari Zone, latest reports say.
He hails from village Bardona, Dewan Para under Dullyatali Union.
Rashik went to Master Para to participate in a religious programme on the occasion of Maghi Purnima.
He was kidnapped from the religious gathering.
Earlier, on 7 April 2009, Rashik was arrested by Bangladesh Army personnel from Jurgachari in Laxmichari Sadar. He was handed over to the police and was shown arrested under section 54 of the Criminal Procedure Code, which gives the police arbitrary power to arrest anyone on mere suspicion.
However, he was released a few days later from Khagrachari jail.
Niron Chakma has condemned the kidnapping of Rashik Chakma, demanded his immediate and unconditional release, and urged the government to take actions against the Borkha Party terrorists.
News No. 14/2010, January 30, 2010
An activist of the United Peoples’ Democratic Front (UPDF) has been kidnapped in Laxmichari, Khagrachari, UPDF sources say.
A group of military-backed Borkha Party men led by Kapil Sen Chakma, Phorachan Chakma and Nirmal Kanti Chakma raided Hazachari Master Para village under Dullyatali Union last night and picked up Rashik Chandra Chakma alias Agata (age 20) son of Mongal Dhan Chakma, UPDF Khagrachari District Unit Organiser Niron Chakma said.
He has been handed over to the army in Laxmichari Zone, latest reports say.
He hails from village Bardona, Dewan Para under Dullyatali Union.
Rashik went to Master Para to participate in a religious programme on the occasion of Maghi Purnima.
He was kidnapped from the religious gathering.
Earlier, on 7 April 2009, Rashik was arrested by Bangladesh Army personnel from Jurgachari in Laxmichari Sadar. He was handed over to the police and was shown arrested under section 54 of the Criminal Procedure Code, which gives the police arbitrary power to arrest anyone on mere suspicion.
However, he was released a few days later from Khagrachari jail.
Niron Chakma has condemned the kidnapping of Rashik Chakma, demanded his immediate and unconditional release, and urged the government to take actions against the Borkha Party terrorists.
Ex-UPDF member kidnapped, released later
chtnews.com
News No. 13/2010, January 29, 2010
A former member of the United Peoples Democratic Front (UPDF) was kidnapped in Sapchari of Manikchari under Rangamati district on 24 January. He was released a few hours later the same day.
Sources said Gulobo Chakma alias Mohan, 25, was kidnapped from his home by a group of six JSS (Santu faction) members led by Arjun Moni Chakma, and Shanti Moni Chakma.
“The JSS people came in a CNG auto rickshaw at around 1.15pm and took him away.” an eyewitness said.
Mohan was an ex-UPDF member and was expelled 7/8 months ago for violating party disciplines.
His father’s name is Suresh Mohan Chakma and mother’s name Kalachoghi Chakma.
News No. 13/2010, January 29, 2010
A former member of the United Peoples Democratic Front (UPDF) was kidnapped in Sapchari of Manikchari under Rangamati district on 24 January. He was released a few hours later the same day.
Sources said Gulobo Chakma alias Mohan, 25, was kidnapped from his home by a group of six JSS (Santu faction) members led by Arjun Moni Chakma, and Shanti Moni Chakma.
“The JSS people came in a CNG auto rickshaw at around 1.15pm and took him away.” an eyewitness said.
Mohan was an ex-UPDF member and was expelled 7/8 months ago for violating party disciplines.
His father’s name is Suresh Mohan Chakma and mother’s name Kalachoghi Chakma.
PCP holds central conference, elects new central committee
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News No. 12/2010, January 28, 2010
A 21-member central committee of the Hill Students' Council has been formed at the end of a two-day conference held in Dhaka on 26 and 27 January.
Aongai Marma and Sumen Chakma have been elected president and general secretary of the new committee respectively.
A total of 240 delegates and observers took part in the council sessions held at Tajul Auditorium at Purana Paltan.
The eighteenth central conference of the PCP was inaugurated by Dr. Akmal Hossain, professor of International Relations at Dhaka University, at TSC Sarakdwip.
Presided over by Ricoh Chakma, the outgoing president of the PCP, the inaugural ceremony was also addressed by Faizul Hakim, General Secretary of Bangladesh Mukti Council; Masud Khan, convenor, Jatiya Ganotantric Gano Mancha; Limon, Sangskritir Naya Setu; Mahabub Mostafa Russel of Pragatishil Paribrajok Dal; Parvez Lenin of Bangladesh Chattra Federation; Ashish Sharma of Biplobi Chattra Sangha; Azizul Islam, president of Jatiya Chattra Dal and Prince Mahamud, organiser of Lamp Post, a progressive study circle group.
A colourful procession was taken out after the inauguration speeches.
News No. 12/2010, January 28, 2010
A 21-member central committee of the Hill Students' Council has been formed at the end of a two-day conference held in Dhaka on 26 and 27 January.
Aongai Marma and Sumen Chakma have been elected president and general secretary of the new committee respectively.
A total of 240 delegates and observers took part in the council sessions held at Tajul Auditorium at Purana Paltan.
The eighteenth central conference of the PCP was inaugurated by Dr. Akmal Hossain, professor of International Relations at Dhaka University, at TSC Sarakdwip.
Presided over by Ricoh Chakma, the outgoing president of the PCP, the inaugural ceremony was also addressed by Faizul Hakim, General Secretary of Bangladesh Mukti Council; Masud Khan, convenor, Jatiya Ganotantric Gano Mancha; Limon, Sangskritir Naya Setu; Mahabub Mostafa Russel of Pragatishil Paribrajok Dal; Parvez Lenin of Bangladesh Chattra Federation; Ashish Sharma of Biplobi Chattra Sangha; Azizul Islam, president of Jatiya Chattra Dal and Prince Mahamud, organiser of Lamp Post, a progressive study circle group.
A colourful procession was taken out after the inauguration speeches.
Two PCP activists injured in JSS attack in Dhaka
chtnews.com
News No. 11/2010, January 28, 2010
Two members of the Hill Students Council popularly known as PCP (its Bengali acronym) were injured when a group of students loyal to Santu Larma attacked them in Dhaka last night.
PCP sources said at around 11pm a group of Santu loyalists led by Batayan, Tuhin, Kartuz and Liton attacked PCP members at the gate of Dhaka University Gymnasium as they were boarding a bus to go back home after attending a two-day central conference of their ogranisation held on 26 - 27 January.
Later, the JSS supporters ran away when other PCP members rushed there and resisted them.
A few minutes later, the Santu loyalists came back along with some Bengali students and tried to mount another attack.
However, the PCP resisted them again and chased them away up to Jagannath Hall. At this stage, the police intervened and forced the PCP members to leave the area.
The injured PCP members have been identified as Biten Chakma and Hori Kamal Tripura.
PCP's newly elected central committee president Aongai Marma condemned the attack and urged the government to arrest those responsible for it.
PCP will organise a demonstration in Dhaka today in protest against the attack today.
News No. 11/2010, January 28, 2010
Two members of the Hill Students Council popularly known as PCP (its Bengali acronym) were injured when a group of students loyal to Santu Larma attacked them in Dhaka last night.
PCP sources said at around 11pm a group of Santu loyalists led by Batayan, Tuhin, Kartuz and Liton attacked PCP members at the gate of Dhaka University Gymnasium as they were boarding a bus to go back home after attending a two-day central conference of their ogranisation held on 26 - 27 January.
Later, the JSS supporters ran away when other PCP members rushed there and resisted them.
A few minutes later, the Santu loyalists came back along with some Bengali students and tried to mount another attack.
However, the PCP resisted them again and chased them away up to Jagannath Hall. At this stage, the police intervened and forced the PCP members to leave the area.
The injured PCP members have been identified as Biten Chakma and Hori Kamal Tripura.
PCP's newly elected central committee president Aongai Marma condemned the attack and urged the government to arrest those responsible for it.
PCP will organise a demonstration in Dhaka today in protest against the attack today.
Santu Larma faces public anger in Maischari
chtnews.com
News No. 10/2010, January 28, 2010
Santu Larma was greeted with boos and catcalls, shoes and sandals, brickbats and dula at Maischari and some other places on Khagrachari - Rangamati road as he was on his way to participate in a meeting of the Chittagong Hill Tracts Land Commission yesterday morning.
Hundreds of people halted his convoy, escorted by police, at Maischari bazaar, pelted his vehicle with brickbats and booed him, shouting "dhara, dhara", "dua dua" (catch him, catch him, assault, assault). They also called him a dalal or collaborator.
The crowd dispersed only when Mr. Larma's armed cadres (some of whom are enlisted criminals) fired shots into them. However, no one was hurt in the firing.
After that, Larma took shelter in the nearby Maischari army camp. He demanded that he be provided army protection for rest of his journey, but was refused.
Later, additional police force came from Khagrachari and took him to the meeting venue at Khagrachari circuit house.
The angry people also hang down shoes and sandals and dula (a bamboo-made basket which has become a symbol of collaborator) at various places including Chongrachari and Maischari under Mahalchari Upazila.
Earlier, his convoy also came under attack when groups of people pelted brickbats at Atara Mile, Betchari Khamar Para and Kalapahar.
Near Zero Mile in Khagrachari, groups of people shouted at him calling him dalal as his convoy passed by.
His car's windowpane broke when hit by brickbats, and he was injured when a splinter hit him in the hand.
Chakma Raja Barrister Debashish Roy and Rangamati District Council Chairman Nikhil Chakma also sustained minor injuries when the mob hit their vehicles with brickbats by mistake.
Santu Larma blamed UPDF for the attack. However, UPDF leaders Niron Chakma and Shanti Dev Chakma vehemently denied this.
They termed the incident as an outburst of public resentment against Santu Larma who is solely responsible for the continuing fratricidal conflict, which has already claimed hundreds of lives.
News No. 10/2010, January 28, 2010
Santu Larma was greeted with boos and catcalls, shoes and sandals, brickbats and dula at Maischari and some other places on Khagrachari - Rangamati road as he was on his way to participate in a meeting of the Chittagong Hill Tracts Land Commission yesterday morning.
Hundreds of people halted his convoy, escorted by police, at Maischari bazaar, pelted his vehicle with brickbats and booed him, shouting "dhara, dhara", "dua dua" (catch him, catch him, assault, assault). They also called him a dalal or collaborator.
The crowd dispersed only when Mr. Larma's armed cadres (some of whom are enlisted criminals) fired shots into them. However, no one was hurt in the firing.
After that, Larma took shelter in the nearby Maischari army camp. He demanded that he be provided army protection for rest of his journey, but was refused.
Later, additional police force came from Khagrachari and took him to the meeting venue at Khagrachari circuit house.
The angry people also hang down shoes and sandals and dula (a bamboo-made basket which has become a symbol of collaborator) at various places including Chongrachari and Maischari under Mahalchari Upazila.
Earlier, his convoy also came under attack when groups of people pelted brickbats at Atara Mile, Betchari Khamar Para and Kalapahar.
Near Zero Mile in Khagrachari, groups of people shouted at him calling him dalal as his convoy passed by.
His car's windowpane broke when hit by brickbats, and he was injured when a splinter hit him in the hand.
Chakma Raja Barrister Debashish Roy and Rangamati District Council Chairman Nikhil Chakma also sustained minor injuries when the mob hit their vehicles with brickbats by mistake.
Santu Larma blamed UPDF for the attack. However, UPDF leaders Niron Chakma and Shanti Dev Chakma vehemently denied this.
They termed the incident as an outburst of public resentment against Santu Larma who is solely responsible for the continuing fratricidal conflict, which has already claimed hundreds of lives.
Mass torture and looting in Sajek
chtnews.com
News No. 09/2010, January 22, 2010
Dozens of Jumma villagers have been tortured and their houses looted in Sajek of Rangamati district.
Reports reaching from the area said at around 12:25PM yesterday a group of army personnel from Baghaihat zone picked up two Jummas from Baghaihat bazaar for their support for the ongoing bazaar boycott programme. (The Sajek Jummas have been boycotting Baghaihat bazaar since 18 January in support of a set of demands which include putting a stop to army repression, land grabbing and withdrawal of the settlers.)
The arrested are Kala Biza Chakma (37) son of Phogira Chakma and Karnajoy Chakma (25) son of Mona Dhan Chakma. Both hail from Retkaba village.
The army took them to Goal Ghar or Round House at Baghaihat zone and began beating. When the news of their arrest and torture spread hundreds of Jumma women laid siege to Goal Ghar and ultimately snatched Kala Biza and Karnajoy away from the hands of the army.
After that incident, the army raided Ladumoni Bazaar at Gangaram Doar village at 4:15PM and beat up dozens of Jumma villagers.
Eight of the victims have been identified. They are Gyana Moy Chakma (45), Gyanendu Chakma (55, he is the convenor of Sajek Land Protection Committee), Bindu Chakma (48), Rajon’s father (42), Shanti Bimal chakma (40), Sarani Bap (32), Anadi Ranjan Chakma (37) and Ms Lozo Mukhi Chakma.
Ms Lozo Mukhi got her front teeth broken when a soldier flung a wooden pole at her face.
All these eight victims are from Retkaba Doar village.
In the evening the army also raided Retkaba village and tortured a number of Jumma villagers at the village tea shop.
At night the army raided Retkaba village once again taking a group of Bengali settlers along with them and looted all the belongings of the houses of the village. Among those whose houses were looted are Ms Ambika Master, her father Rinki Chakma and Ajit Chakma.
The settlers then burnt down their own empty huts which they had built on Jumma people’s lands.
The army and settlers went to Retkaba village again in the morning and chased away the Jummas who had returned to the village after passing the night in the jungle.
News No. 09/2010, January 22, 2010
Dozens of Jumma villagers have been tortured and their houses looted in Sajek of Rangamati district.
Reports reaching from the area said at around 12:25PM yesterday a group of army personnel from Baghaihat zone picked up two Jummas from Baghaihat bazaar for their support for the ongoing bazaar boycott programme. (The Sajek Jummas have been boycotting Baghaihat bazaar since 18 January in support of a set of demands which include putting a stop to army repression, land grabbing and withdrawal of the settlers.)
The arrested are Kala Biza Chakma (37) son of Phogira Chakma and Karnajoy Chakma (25) son of Mona Dhan Chakma. Both hail from Retkaba village.
The army took them to Goal Ghar or Round House at Baghaihat zone and began beating. When the news of their arrest and torture spread hundreds of Jumma women laid siege to Goal Ghar and ultimately snatched Kala Biza and Karnajoy away from the hands of the army.
After that incident, the army raided Ladumoni Bazaar at Gangaram Doar village at 4:15PM and beat up dozens of Jumma villagers.
Eight of the victims have been identified. They are Gyana Moy Chakma (45), Gyanendu Chakma (55, he is the convenor of Sajek Land Protection Committee), Bindu Chakma (48), Rajon’s father (42), Shanti Bimal chakma (40), Sarani Bap (32), Anadi Ranjan Chakma (37) and Ms Lozo Mukhi Chakma.
Ms Lozo Mukhi got her front teeth broken when a soldier flung a wooden pole at her face.
All these eight victims are from Retkaba Doar village.
In the evening the army also raided Retkaba village and tortured a number of Jumma villagers at the village tea shop.
At night the army raided Retkaba village once again taking a group of Bengali settlers along with them and looted all the belongings of the houses of the village. Among those whose houses were looted are Ms Ambika Master, her father Rinki Chakma and Ajit Chakma.
The settlers then burnt down their own empty huts which they had built on Jumma people’s lands.
The army and settlers went to Retkaba village again in the morning and chased away the Jummas who had returned to the village after passing the night in the jungle.
Thursday, January 14, 2010
News No. 08/2010/ JSS Santu group ransack UPDF office, two shops in Rajstali
chtnews.com
News No. 08/2010, January 12, 2010
Armed members of the Santu Larma faction of the Jana Samhati Samiti made a foray into Rajstali Sadar in Rangamati district and vandalized two shops and the office of the United Peoples Democratic Front.
Animesh Chakma, a central committee member of the UPDF, told chtnews.com that a group of about 20 JSS men led by Sadhan Tanchangya of Roangchari village raided Rajstali Bazaar at about 5:30AM today and ransacked the local UPDF office and two other shops.
“The JSS terrorists smashed the signboard of our office, broke the signboard, the door and windows of Jibok Pharmacy, a medicine shop, and ransacked the grocery shop of Babul Majumder.” Animesh said.
According to him, the JSS members also attempted to kidnap Md. Jafar from Talukder Para village. He is an Adibashi Bengali businessman and a supporter of UPDF.
“But their attempt failed when the CNG auto-rickshaw drivers woke up and resisted.” he added.
Animesh condemned the JSS attack and called upon all to resist the terrorists.
“The people are left with no other alternative than to fight back. Time and again, we appealed to the JSS to come to the negotiating table but to no avail; the more we raise our voice for a peaceful settlement, the more they become aggressive against us.” he said.
“What and whose purpose do they serve by attacking us, killing our people and extorting money from poor villagers?” he asked.
News No. 08/2010, January 12, 2010
Armed members of the Santu Larma faction of the Jana Samhati Samiti made a foray into Rajstali Sadar in Rangamati district and vandalized two shops and the office of the United Peoples Democratic Front.
Animesh Chakma, a central committee member of the UPDF, told chtnews.com that a group of about 20 JSS men led by Sadhan Tanchangya of Roangchari village raided Rajstali Bazaar at about 5:30AM today and ransacked the local UPDF office and two other shops.
“The JSS terrorists smashed the signboard of our office, broke the signboard, the door and windows of Jibok Pharmacy, a medicine shop, and ransacked the grocery shop of Babul Majumder.” Animesh said.
According to him, the JSS members also attempted to kidnap Md. Jafar from Talukder Para village. He is an Adibashi Bengali businessman and a supporter of UPDF.
“But their attempt failed when the CNG auto-rickshaw drivers woke up and resisted.” he added.
Animesh condemned the JSS attack and called upon all to resist the terrorists.
“The people are left with no other alternative than to fight back. Time and again, we appealed to the JSS to come to the negotiating table but to no avail; the more we raise our voice for a peaceful settlement, the more they become aggressive against us.” he said.
“What and whose purpose do they serve by attacking us, killing our people and extorting money from poor villagers?” he asked.
Three villagers held hostage by JSS, freed later
chtnews.com
News No. 07/2010, January 12, 2010
Armed members of the Santu Larma faction of the Jana Samhati Samiti held hostage three Jumma villagers in Belaichari under Rangamati district before freeing them on payment of ransom, sources said.
A school teacher, requesting anonymity for security reasons, told chtnews.com that on 8 January, the JSS men had issued letters to 8 villagers asking them to meet them (Santu group).
“They met the JSS people, who held hostage three of them.” he said and added “we heard that the JSS demanded Taka 300,000 for their release.”
On 10 January, the hostages were released apparently on payment of part of the ransom money demanded.
“However, the hostages’ families are too scared to say publicly that they had to pay the money” he said.
“But the general belief is that the money has actually been paid.”
The victims are Shanti Baran Talukder (48) son of Nanya Ram Chakma, Office Secretary of Hengerachari Union Parishad No. 2 and a resident of Herongchari village; Gyanendu Chakma (36) son of Mohesh Chandra Chakma of village Shamukchari, a trader; and Nangu Karbari (48) son of Jubojon Karbari, chief of Herongchari village.
..............................
News No. 07/2010, January 12, 2010
Armed members of the Santu Larma faction of the Jana Samhati Samiti held hostage three Jumma villagers in Belaichari under Rangamati district before freeing them on payment of ransom, sources said.
A school teacher, requesting anonymity for security reasons, told chtnews.com that on 8 January, the JSS men had issued letters to 8 villagers asking them to meet them (Santu group).
“They met the JSS people, who held hostage three of them.” he said and added “we heard that the JSS demanded Taka 300,000 for their release.”
On 10 January, the hostages were released apparently on payment of part of the ransom money demanded.
“However, the hostages’ families are too scared to say publicly that they had to pay the money” he said.
“But the general belief is that the money has actually been paid.”
The victims are Shanti Baran Talukder (48) son of Nanya Ram Chakma, Office Secretary of Hengerachari Union Parishad No. 2 and a resident of Herongchari village; Gyanendu Chakma (36) son of Mohesh Chandra Chakma of village Shamukchari, a trader; and Nangu Karbari (48) son of Jubojon Karbari, chief of Herongchari village.
..............................
Human chain formed against land grabbing in Bandarban
chtnews.com
News No. 06/2010, January 11, 2010
Hundreds of people formed a human chain today in Bandarban town to protest against continuing land grabbing in the district.
Organised by Citizens Committee of Bandarban and held in front of Bandarban Press Club at 10:30 AM, the human chain stretched from Sonali Bank to DC Office.
An estimated over five hundred Jumma people, who came from different villages, took part in the programme.
United Peoples Democratic Front’s (UPDF) Bandarban district organiser, Choton Kanti Tanchangya spoke while the human chain was formed.
He urged the district administration to stop grabbing of Jumma people’s land in the name of constructing ‘tourist resorts’ and on any other pretexts.
He said “definitely we want development, but we don’t want such developments which displace our people, which destroy our livelihoods and culture and which make our future uncertain. Such an activity cannot be called development.”
“If you (government) want development, then why don’t you reopen the Pahari students’ hostel, which has been lying vacant for so many years?” he asked.
Choton also urged the administration to stop constructing the so-called “Swargachura” (peak of heaven) on land belonging to a member of Bawm community and to take actions against Jamayat-e Islami supporters trying to occupy lands of 25 Tripura families.
The participants held posters and banners, demanding dismissal of UNO, investigation into allegations of involvement of government officials in land grabbing and stoppage of construction of tourist resorts.
News No. 06/2010, January 11, 2010
Hundreds of people formed a human chain today in Bandarban town to protest against continuing land grabbing in the district.
Organised by Citizens Committee of Bandarban and held in front of Bandarban Press Club at 10:30 AM, the human chain stretched from Sonali Bank to DC Office.
An estimated over five hundred Jumma people, who came from different villages, took part in the programme.
United Peoples Democratic Front’s (UPDF) Bandarban district organiser, Choton Kanti Tanchangya spoke while the human chain was formed.
He urged the district administration to stop grabbing of Jumma people’s land in the name of constructing ‘tourist resorts’ and on any other pretexts.
He said “definitely we want development, but we don’t want such developments which displace our people, which destroy our livelihoods and culture and which make our future uncertain. Such an activity cannot be called development.”
“If you (government) want development, then why don’t you reopen the Pahari students’ hostel, which has been lying vacant for so many years?” he asked.
Choton also urged the administration to stop constructing the so-called “Swargachura” (peak of heaven) on land belonging to a member of Bawm community and to take actions against Jamayat-e Islami supporters trying to occupy lands of 25 Tripura families.
The participants held posters and banners, demanding dismissal of UNO, investigation into allegations of involvement of government officials in land grabbing and stoppage of construction of tourist resorts.
Two innocent villagers arrested by army in Merung
chtnews.com
News No. 05/2010, January 11, 2010
Army has arrested two innocent villagers from Moner Manush area under Merung Union in Dighinala Upazila.
Sources said two groups of army personnel from Chongrachari camp and Yarangchari camp under Dighinala zone raided Moner Manush area in the small hours of yesterday morning and arrested two Jumma villagers from there.
The arrested have been identified as Natun Chandra Chakma, age 50, son of Ush Moni Chakma and Suniti Chakma alias Moner Manush, age 40, son of Niru Chakma.
The former, a resident of Chongrachari village, is a former member of Merung Union Council while the latter runs a small tea shop at Moner Manush, an area named after his alias.
Both have been handed over to Dighinala police station at around 11AM.
They have been arrested in connection with alleged disappearance of a settler named Ainal last year.
News No. 05/2010, January 11, 2010
Army has arrested two innocent villagers from Moner Manush area under Merung Union in Dighinala Upazila.
Sources said two groups of army personnel from Chongrachari camp and Yarangchari camp under Dighinala zone raided Moner Manush area in the small hours of yesterday morning and arrested two Jumma villagers from there.
The arrested have been identified as Natun Chandra Chakma, age 50, son of Ush Moni Chakma and Suniti Chakma alias Moner Manush, age 40, son of Niru Chakma.
The former, a resident of Chongrachari village, is a former member of Merung Union Council while the latter runs a small tea shop at Moner Manush, an area named after his alias.
Both have been handed over to Dighinala police station at around 11AM.
They have been arrested in connection with alleged disappearance of a settler named Ainal last year.
Jamayat supporters attempt to occupy Tripua Village
chtnews.com
News No. 04/2010, January 10, 2010
There are allegations that supporters of Bangladesh Jamayat-e Islami have been making attempts to occupy the village of Jote-ram Tripura Para in Bandarban Sadar Upazila, reports Prothom Alo, a national Bengali daily newspaper.
In a news article published in today’s issue of the paper, its Bandarban correspondent, Buddha Jyoti Chakma writes: “the Jamayat supporters are harassing the villagers by filing false cases against them. Moreover, they have initiated a process of obtaining a Jote Permit (permission to cut and transport trees) so that they can cut away the trees of village worth Taka million. The Deputy Commissioner is said to have directed (the relevant officials) to issue Jote Permits to them.”
He further writes: “sources concerned including residents of Tripura Para said in 1986, the Forest Department had rehabilitated 25 Tripura families in Tonkaboti Mouza of Tonkaboti Union under a Jumiya resettlement project. The new settlement was named after Jote-ram Tripura, the chief of the village.
“In the new settlement, an area -- lying to the south of a piece of land belonging to Ayub Ali -- has been demarcated for housing plots and a school for the Tripura people. Later Ayub Ali sold his land to Nasir Ali. That land is still lying vacant.
“After settlement the Jummas grew various kinds of trees including mangoo, jackfruit and teak. During a visit to the village (this correspondent) witnessed many large trees. Local residents told they would earn Taka 15 – 20 lakhs from the sale of teak trees alone.
“Jote-ram Tripura said a gang led by Jamayat supporter Nasir Uddin aka Footbal Nasir secretly filed a petition with Deputy Commissioner and the Forest Department for issuance of Jote Permits that would be applicable for four acres of land including the land covering Jote-ram Para. When they (villagers) came to know of the matter, they raised objections with the Deputy Commissioner, and this enraged the gang members. Later, a false case was filed against some Jumma villagers for stealing trees. On 3 January, Jote-ram Karbari submitted a written appeal to the Deputy Commissioner to protect his village and the trees. In his appeal he has brought allegations of masterminding attempts to grab (land and trees) against Nasir Uddin, Ashraf Ullah, Serajul Islam, Khokan Mian and Abdul Rashid – all supporters of Jamayat-e Islami in Bandarban.
“When contacted, Nasir Uddin claimed that the trees in the Tripura village were planted by Ayub Ali. It is the Jumma people who occupied Ayub Ali’s land. The Divisional Forest Officer of Bandarban A. S. M. Monirul and Range Officer of Tonkaboti Shib Prashad said as per rules, Ayub Ali’s land was demarcated with the aid of surveyors and land department officers. The issue was settled back in 1986. However, they said they would inquire into the matter.
“The Deputy Commissioner Mizanur Rahman has confirmed he received a written allegation from Tripura people. He said, ‘I told the Adibashis (Jumma people) to resist with arrow and bow, dao (a kind of knife) and axes and also to file cases, if anyone tries to grab their lands’. He said he could not remember giving go-ahead to the gang to initiate the process of Jote Permit. Abdus Salam Azad, Amir of Jamat-e Islami in Bandarban, said ‘we have some supporters in the area; Nasir Uddin and Ashraf are our supporters. They come and join our meetings and processions.’”
News No. 04/2010, January 10, 2010
There are allegations that supporters of Bangladesh Jamayat-e Islami have been making attempts to occupy the village of Jote-ram Tripura Para in Bandarban Sadar Upazila, reports Prothom Alo, a national Bengali daily newspaper.
In a news article published in today’s issue of the paper, its Bandarban correspondent, Buddha Jyoti Chakma writes: “the Jamayat supporters are harassing the villagers by filing false cases against them. Moreover, they have initiated a process of obtaining a Jote Permit (permission to cut and transport trees) so that they can cut away the trees of village worth Taka million. The Deputy Commissioner is said to have directed (the relevant officials) to issue Jote Permits to them.”
He further writes: “sources concerned including residents of Tripura Para said in 1986, the Forest Department had rehabilitated 25 Tripura families in Tonkaboti Mouza of Tonkaboti Union under a Jumiya resettlement project. The new settlement was named after Jote-ram Tripura, the chief of the village.
“In the new settlement, an area -- lying to the south of a piece of land belonging to Ayub Ali -- has been demarcated for housing plots and a school for the Tripura people. Later Ayub Ali sold his land to Nasir Ali. That land is still lying vacant.
“After settlement the Jummas grew various kinds of trees including mangoo, jackfruit and teak. During a visit to the village (this correspondent) witnessed many large trees. Local residents told they would earn Taka 15 – 20 lakhs from the sale of teak trees alone.
“Jote-ram Tripura said a gang led by Jamayat supporter Nasir Uddin aka Footbal Nasir secretly filed a petition with Deputy Commissioner and the Forest Department for issuance of Jote Permits that would be applicable for four acres of land including the land covering Jote-ram Para. When they (villagers) came to know of the matter, they raised objections with the Deputy Commissioner, and this enraged the gang members. Later, a false case was filed against some Jumma villagers for stealing trees. On 3 January, Jote-ram Karbari submitted a written appeal to the Deputy Commissioner to protect his village and the trees. In his appeal he has brought allegations of masterminding attempts to grab (land and trees) against Nasir Uddin, Ashraf Ullah, Serajul Islam, Khokan Mian and Abdul Rashid – all supporters of Jamayat-e Islami in Bandarban.
“When contacted, Nasir Uddin claimed that the trees in the Tripura village were planted by Ayub Ali. It is the Jumma people who occupied Ayub Ali’s land. The Divisional Forest Officer of Bandarban A. S. M. Monirul and Range Officer of Tonkaboti Shib Prashad said as per rules, Ayub Ali’s land was demarcated with the aid of surveyors and land department officers. The issue was settled back in 1986. However, they said they would inquire into the matter.
“The Deputy Commissioner Mizanur Rahman has confirmed he received a written allegation from Tripura people. He said, ‘I told the Adibashis (Jumma people) to resist with arrow and bow, dao (a kind of knife) and axes and also to file cases, if anyone tries to grab their lands’. He said he could not remember giving go-ahead to the gang to initiate the process of Jote Permit. Abdus Salam Azad, Amir of Jamat-e Islami in Bandarban, said ‘we have some supporters in the area; Nasir Uddin and Ashraf are our supporters. They come and join our meetings and processions.’”
Sajek Jumma women defy army rules, give govt until 15 Jan to meet demands
chtnews.com
News No. 03/2010, January 08, 2010
In an open defiance of harassing army-imposed rules making passengers to get down from vehicles and walk about 200 yards near Baghaihat Army Zonal camp and two other check points, the Jumma women of Sajek today crossed all the three check posts in the area mounting four jeeps.
“The army did not even try to halt their vehicles, and if they had tried, the women would not have followed the rule, they would not have got down from their vehicles.” a UPDF leader, who said his party gives moral support to the women, told chtnews.com by mobile phone from Dighinala.
Earlier in the morning, the Sajek Nari Samaj (Women Society of Sajek) pasted posters at important locations including Baghaihat bazaar, demanding an end to army repression, harassment at check-posts and land grabbing.
The SNS was formed on 26 December last year to campaign against military repression and land grabbing.
“The army has torn some of the posters around Baghaihat bazaar, but many are still on display.” he said quoting Sajek residents.
On 5 January, the Sajek residents including SNS submitted a memorandum to the Baghaicahri Upazila Nirbahi Officer putting forward a set of 6-point demands.
Today, they issued an ultimatum for the government to fulfill these demands.
They said they would call for an indefinite boycott of Baghaihat bazaar if the demands are not met by 15 January.
News No. 03/2010, January 08, 2010
In an open defiance of harassing army-imposed rules making passengers to get down from vehicles and walk about 200 yards near Baghaihat Army Zonal camp and two other check points, the Jumma women of Sajek today crossed all the three check posts in the area mounting four jeeps.
“The army did not even try to halt their vehicles, and if they had tried, the women would not have followed the rule, they would not have got down from their vehicles.” a UPDF leader, who said his party gives moral support to the women, told chtnews.com by mobile phone from Dighinala.
Earlier in the morning, the Sajek Nari Samaj (Women Society of Sajek) pasted posters at important locations including Baghaihat bazaar, demanding an end to army repression, harassment at check-posts and land grabbing.
The SNS was formed on 26 December last year to campaign against military repression and land grabbing.
“The army has torn some of the posters around Baghaihat bazaar, but many are still on display.” he said quoting Sajek residents.
On 5 January, the Sajek residents including SNS submitted a memorandum to the Baghaicahri Upazila Nirbahi Officer putting forward a set of 6-point demands.
Today, they issued an ultimatum for the government to fulfill these demands.
They said they would call for an indefinite boycott of Baghaihat bazaar if the demands are not met by 15 January.
Birth anniversary of Bana Bhante today
chtnews.com
News No. 02/2010, January 08, 2010
Today marks the 91th anniversary of birth of the Great Bana Bhante, who is believed to have attained Arhathood (fully liberated), the highest spiritual achievement in Buddhism.
The Great Bhante was born Rathindra Chakma on 8 January 1919 into an ordinary Chakma family in a village on the bank of the river Borgang, also known as Karnaphuli. He was given the name of Sadhanananda after becoming a Buddhist novice at the age of 29 in the year 1949 at Nandan Kanan Buddhist temple in Chittagong. His father's name is Haru Mohan Chakma and mother's name Birpudi Chakma. He is the oldest among his five siblings.
The young Rathindra received formal education up to class six at Moghban Medium English School. However, he has a deep passion for learning. He used to read whatever books he would get hold of including Buddhist and Hindu texts. He also read the writings of Rabindranath Tagore and Bankim Chandra, the two icons of Bengali literature, as well as books on medicine and Ayurveda.
After becoming a Buddhist monk, the Bhante went thorough rigorous meditation for 14 years enduring bodily pains and hardships, ignoring extreme heat and cold and braving incessant rain in the jungles of Dhanpada and Dighinala swarmed with wild elephants, tigers, wild bores and poisonous snakes.
This is because of his dwelling and meditating in the jungle following the true Buddhist tradition that he came to be known as Bana Bhante or Forest Monk.
Messages
On the eve of his 91th birth day, President of Bangladesh Zillur Rahman, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasian and Leader of the Opposition Khaleda Zia sent messages wishing him best and longer life.
Programmes
To mark his birth anniversary, the Raj Bana Vihara in Rangamati has chalked out a day-long programme, which includes hoisting of Buddhist flag, inauguration of the programme by Bana Bhante, offering breakfast to the Bhikkhu Sangha, Buddha Puja (offering to the Buddha), acceptance of Panchasila (five precepts), donation of Buddha statue, Sangha Dana (offering to the Sangha), Ashta Parishkar Dan (offering of eight essentials), rendering of religious songs, Deshana (sermon) by Bana Bhante and offering mid-day meal to the Bhikkhu Sangha.
In the afternoon, 84,000 candles will be lighted, while in the evening a mass candle lighting will be observed.
Most revered
The Bana Bhante is the most revered and venerated Buddhist monk in Bangladesh. His name and fame has transcended all borders. His contribution to the revival and spread of Buddhism in CHT is immense.
The Bhante has the distinguished ability to illustrate and explain the Dhamma of the Lord Buddha in plain language using similes and parables. The devotees listen to his religious lectures with rapt attention.
The advent of the Buddhas is rare in the world and so are the Arhats. The Bana Bhante has attained Arhathood which means that he is now fully enlightened and liberated and that he will not reborn after Parinibbana or the extinction of the flame of life. He is the greatest man ever born in the Chittagong Hill Tracts.
News No. 02/2010, January 08, 2010
Today marks the 91th anniversary of birth of the Great Bana Bhante, who is believed to have attained Arhathood (fully liberated), the highest spiritual achievement in Buddhism.
The Great Bhante was born Rathindra Chakma on 8 January 1919 into an ordinary Chakma family in a village on the bank of the river Borgang, also known as Karnaphuli. He was given the name of Sadhanananda after becoming a Buddhist novice at the age of 29 in the year 1949 at Nandan Kanan Buddhist temple in Chittagong. His father's name is Haru Mohan Chakma and mother's name Birpudi Chakma. He is the oldest among his five siblings.
The young Rathindra received formal education up to class six at Moghban Medium English School. However, he has a deep passion for learning. He used to read whatever books he would get hold of including Buddhist and Hindu texts. He also read the writings of Rabindranath Tagore and Bankim Chandra, the two icons of Bengali literature, as well as books on medicine and Ayurveda.
After becoming a Buddhist monk, the Bhante went thorough rigorous meditation for 14 years enduring bodily pains and hardships, ignoring extreme heat and cold and braving incessant rain in the jungles of Dhanpada and Dighinala swarmed with wild elephants, tigers, wild bores and poisonous snakes.
This is because of his dwelling and meditating in the jungle following the true Buddhist tradition that he came to be known as Bana Bhante or Forest Monk.
Messages
On the eve of his 91th birth day, President of Bangladesh Zillur Rahman, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasian and Leader of the Opposition Khaleda Zia sent messages wishing him best and longer life.
Programmes
To mark his birth anniversary, the Raj Bana Vihara in Rangamati has chalked out a day-long programme, which includes hoisting of Buddhist flag, inauguration of the programme by Bana Bhante, offering breakfast to the Bhikkhu Sangha, Buddha Puja (offering to the Buddha), acceptance of Panchasila (five precepts), donation of Buddha statue, Sangha Dana (offering to the Sangha), Ashta Parishkar Dan (offering of eight essentials), rendering of religious songs, Deshana (sermon) by Bana Bhante and offering mid-day meal to the Bhikkhu Sangha.
In the afternoon, 84,000 candles will be lighted, while in the evening a mass candle lighting will be observed.
Most revered
The Bana Bhante is the most revered and venerated Buddhist monk in Bangladesh. His name and fame has transcended all borders. His contribution to the revival and spread of Buddhism in CHT is immense.
The Bhante has the distinguished ability to illustrate and explain the Dhamma of the Lord Buddha in plain language using similes and parables. The devotees listen to his religious lectures with rapt attention.
The advent of the Buddhas is rare in the world and so are the Arhats. The Bana Bhante has attained Arhathood which means that he is now fully enlightened and liberated and that he will not reborn after Parinibbana or the extinction of the flame of life. He is the greatest man ever born in the Chittagong Hill Tracts.
Abducted UPDF supporters released in Rangamati
chtnews.com
News No. 01/2009, January 01, 2010
The seven UPDF supporters who were kidnapped by members of the Jana Samhati Samiti’s Santu faction on 25 December have been released.
UPDF Rangamati District Unit organiser Shanti Dev Chakma told chtnews.com that they were released in the evening yesterday.
“But their parents had to pay Taka 25,000 ($ 357) each to secure their release.” he said.
“The kidnappers also tagged some conditions to their release, such as refraining from supporting UPDF, from filing any criminal cases against them (abductors) and from speaking to the press about the incident.”
The UPDF supporters were kidnapped from Sapchari of Manikchari while pasting posters about the eleventh founding anniversary programme of the UPDF.
Another source said General Secretary of PCP Jurachari branch, Promod Kanti Chakma was also released from captivity on 29 December. He was abducted by JSS gunmen (Santu faction) on 21 December from a village in Jurachari under Rangamati district.
News No. 01/2009, January 01, 2010
The seven UPDF supporters who were kidnapped by members of the Jana Samhati Samiti’s Santu faction on 25 December have been released.
UPDF Rangamati District Unit organiser Shanti Dev Chakma told chtnews.com that they were released in the evening yesterday.
“But their parents had to pay Taka 25,000 ($ 357) each to secure their release.” he said.
“The kidnappers also tagged some conditions to their release, such as refraining from supporting UPDF, from filing any criminal cases against them (abductors) and from speaking to the press about the incident.”
The UPDF supporters were kidnapped from Sapchari of Manikchari while pasting posters about the eleventh founding anniversary programme of the UPDF.
Another source said General Secretary of PCP Jurachari branch, Promod Kanti Chakma was also released from captivity on 29 December. He was abducted by JSS gunmen (Santu faction) on 21 December from a village in Jurachari under Rangamati district.
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