chtnews.com
News No. 100/2009, August 8, 2009
The rumour of an attack on Bengali settlers by Jumma people in Panchari has turned out to be a hoax.
On Friday moring, 7 August, rumours spread that the Jumma people attacked a settler village in Shantila, destroyed their houses and cut away their trees.
This immediately set the Panchari administration into motion. Upazila chairman Sorbottam Chakma and UNO Md. Abdul Kader Sheikh rushed to the spot along with a huge contingent of police force.
They found over one hundred settlers and a few journalists gathered at Shantila.
The so-called Sama Odhikar leaders Habib Daktar, Md. Bahar Mian, Shaheen and Atikur Rahman brought a number of false allegations against the Jumma people.
However, after speaking with the people in the area, the UNO, the Upazila chairman and Shantila camp commander Md. Hamidul Islam confirmed that no such attacks had ever taken place.
After this, the UNO ordered the Sama Odhikar leaders to get away from his presence and warned them not to provoke communal troubles.
The Sama Odhikar Andolon, Bangali Chattra Parishad (Bengali Student’s Council) and other ultra-communal organisations of the settlers have stepped up their vicious communal propaganda campaign since the government announced on 29 July that it would pull out one brigade of Bangladesh Army soldiers from Chittagong Hill Tracts.
These communal outfits are patronized by the army and are used as a weapon to counter the democratic struggle of the Jumma people by fomenting communal tension between the settlers and the Jumma people.
On 15 July, an attempt was made to launch a communal attack on Modon Karbari Para in Panchari. Here the settlers uprooted a few young teak plants and cut down redundant plantains planted on lands they had grabbed from the Jumma people, and then lodged a complaint to the local administration that these were the work of the Jummas.
But the attempt failed when the local administration made a swift intervention. The UNO and the Upazila chairman immediately rushed to the area and ordered the settlers to clam down.
Another team of the local administration is scheduled to visit the area to conduct further investigation on the matter today.
Shantila and West Modon Karbari Para villages belong to the Jumma people, locals say. “These two villages, like all other cluster villages of the settlers, were once inhabited by the Jumma people” they claim.
According to them, in 1981 – 82, the settlers occupied these two villages after driving away the Jumma villagers with the help of the army.
Saturday, August 15, 2009
Freshers’ reception held in Naniachar College
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News No. 99/2009, August 8, 2009
The Hill Students’ Council held a freshers’ reception in Naniachar College on 6 July, with Binoyon Chakma, president of PCP Naniachar Branch, in the chair.
Upali Chakma, a first year student, read out an address of honour, while Tonni Chakma received a bunch of flowers from Ricoh Chakma on behalf of the fresher students.
Bablu Chakma, vice president of Naniachar PCP, gave an introductory speech.
Among others who spoke were Bilash Chakma, president of PCP Naniachar Branch, Ratan Chakma, president of PCP Khagrachari Branch, Ricoh Chakma and Mithun Chakma.
The function was conducted by Tapu Moni Chakma, General Secretary of PCP Naniachar College Unit.
News No. 99/2009, August 8, 2009
The Hill Students’ Council held a freshers’ reception in Naniachar College on 6 July, with Binoyon Chakma, president of PCP Naniachar Branch, in the chair.
Upali Chakma, a first year student, read out an address of honour, while Tonni Chakma received a bunch of flowers from Ricoh Chakma on behalf of the fresher students.
Bablu Chakma, vice president of Naniachar PCP, gave an introductory speech.
Among others who spoke were Bilash Chakma, president of PCP Naniachar Branch, Ratan Chakma, president of PCP Khagrachari Branch, Ricoh Chakma and Mithun Chakma.
The function was conducted by Tapu Moni Chakma, General Secretary of PCP Naniachar College Unit.
PCP, HWF and DYF holds joint meeting in Dighinala
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News No. 98/2009, August 8, 2009
In a joint meeting of the PCP, HWF and DYF in Dighinala on Friday, yesterday, the speakers urged for a complete pull-out of the troops from the Chittagong Hill Tracts.
Presided over by Remin Chakma, convenor of Dighinala Branch of the Democratic Youth Forum, the meeting also addressed by Mithun Chakma, Convenor of the DYF’s Central Council Convening Committee, Hill Student’s Council (PCP) president Ricoh Chakma, Rupali Chakma, leader of Hill Women’s Federation Dighinala branch, Milan Chakma, convenor of PCP Dighinala Branch, Dipan Chakma and Alo Jiban Chakma.
The speakers said peace cannot be established unless there is a complete withdrawal of the army from CHT.
“Partial troops pull out is welcome, but we will not accept anything other than a complete pull-out of the troops who are the constant source of insecurity for the Jumma people in the CHT.” said Mithun Chakma.
He also urged the government to accord constitutional recognition to the age-old customary land laws of the Jumma people and to return all the lands grabbed from them.
“The settlers have taken away hundreds of acres of land from the Jumma people during the military-backed emergency rule alone.” he said and urged the government to prove its sincerity by returning these lands to their rightful owners.
Ricoh Chakma condemned the rape of Meena Chakma and demanded of the government to bring Grameen Bank employee Nazrul Hassan, the culprit, to justice.
He also urged the government and the money –lending NGOs to put a moratorium on micro credit in CHT.
“Micro credit is not beneficial to the Jumma people and hence it must be stopped.” he said.
News No. 98/2009, August 8, 2009
In a joint meeting of the PCP, HWF and DYF in Dighinala on Friday, yesterday, the speakers urged for a complete pull-out of the troops from the Chittagong Hill Tracts.
Presided over by Remin Chakma, convenor of Dighinala Branch of the Democratic Youth Forum, the meeting also addressed by Mithun Chakma, Convenor of the DYF’s Central Council Convening Committee, Hill Student’s Council (PCP) president Ricoh Chakma, Rupali Chakma, leader of Hill Women’s Federation Dighinala branch, Milan Chakma, convenor of PCP Dighinala Branch, Dipan Chakma and Alo Jiban Chakma.
The speakers said peace cannot be established unless there is a complete withdrawal of the army from CHT.
“Partial troops pull out is welcome, but we will not accept anything other than a complete pull-out of the troops who are the constant source of insecurity for the Jumma people in the CHT.” said Mithun Chakma.
He also urged the government to accord constitutional recognition to the age-old customary land laws of the Jumma people and to return all the lands grabbed from them.
“The settlers have taken away hundreds of acres of land from the Jumma people during the military-backed emergency rule alone.” he said and urged the government to prove its sincerity by returning these lands to their rightful owners.
Ricoh Chakma condemned the rape of Meena Chakma and demanded of the government to bring Grameen Bank employee Nazrul Hassan, the culprit, to justice.
He also urged the government and the money –lending NGOs to put a moratorium on micro credit in CHT.
“Micro credit is not beneficial to the Jumma people and hence it must be stopped.” he said.
UPDF stages protest against kidnapping of its supporter in Rangamati
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News No. 97/2009, August 8, 2009
The Kawkhali Unit of the United People’s Democratic Front on 6 August staged a demonstration, demanding the release of one its supporters kidnapped by JSS (Santu) terrorists from Rangamati stadium on 30 July.
The local administration tired to obstruct the demonstration. The OC of Kawkhali police station delivered a verbal order to the organisers not to organise the planned rally and procession.
“The OC told us that we were not allowed to organise the demonstration; but when we asked him to show any written document forbidding our program, he failed to show us any.” Charan Sing Tonchongya, a UPDF member, told chtnews.com by mobile phone from Kawkhali.
He further said that the OC was merely conveying the order of the UNO. “However, we had duly informed the UNO of our program a day before our program, on 5 August.” he added.
When the procession took off at 2pm, the police tried to prevent it and this led to an altercation between them.
However, the demonstrators broke through the police barricade and paraded the Upazila town. Thereafter, they held a rally at Upazila Gate.
The rally was addressed by Pulok Chakma, Rupok Chakma, Charan Sing Tonchongya and Jubolika Chakma.
The speakers condemned the kidnapping of Shankar Chakma, a UPDF supporter, and demanded his immediate release.
They accused the local administration of colluding with the Santu faction of the Jana Samhati Samiti.
Charan Sing Tonchongya urged the government to investigate the corruption allegations against Santu Larma, who is also the chairman of the Regional Council.
Pulok Chakma urged Santu Larma to shun the politics of killing and kidnapping and join the struggle for the right to self-determination.
HWF leader Ms Jubolika Chakma condemned the police and local civil administration for their undemocratic behaviour and said “gone are the days when the Jumma people had to tolerate all sorts of injustices meted out to them.”
“Now the people have risen up, and therefore no amount of repression will be able to subdue our struggle.” she asserted.
She demanded of the government to take immediate steps to rescue Shankar Chakma.
“The army and the government always maintain double standards.” she alleged, adding “when any Bengali people are kidnapped the army and the civil administration immediately throw themselves into action; but in the case of a Jumma they don’t even raise a finger.”
“This is such kind of communal and racist attitude of the government and the army which is contributing to the problems of the CHT.” she said.
News No. 97/2009, August 8, 2009
The Kawkhali Unit of the United People’s Democratic Front on 6 August staged a demonstration, demanding the release of one its supporters kidnapped by JSS (Santu) terrorists from Rangamati stadium on 30 July.
The local administration tired to obstruct the demonstration. The OC of Kawkhali police station delivered a verbal order to the organisers not to organise the planned rally and procession.
“The OC told us that we were not allowed to organise the demonstration; but when we asked him to show any written document forbidding our program, he failed to show us any.” Charan Sing Tonchongya, a UPDF member, told chtnews.com by mobile phone from Kawkhali.
He further said that the OC was merely conveying the order of the UNO. “However, we had duly informed the UNO of our program a day before our program, on 5 August.” he added.
When the procession took off at 2pm, the police tried to prevent it and this led to an altercation between them.
However, the demonstrators broke through the police barricade and paraded the Upazila town. Thereafter, they held a rally at Upazila Gate.
The rally was addressed by Pulok Chakma, Rupok Chakma, Charan Sing Tonchongya and Jubolika Chakma.
The speakers condemned the kidnapping of Shankar Chakma, a UPDF supporter, and demanded his immediate release.
They accused the local administration of colluding with the Santu faction of the Jana Samhati Samiti.
Charan Sing Tonchongya urged the government to investigate the corruption allegations against Santu Larma, who is also the chairman of the Regional Council.
Pulok Chakma urged Santu Larma to shun the politics of killing and kidnapping and join the struggle for the right to self-determination.
HWF leader Ms Jubolika Chakma condemned the police and local civil administration for their undemocratic behaviour and said “gone are the days when the Jumma people had to tolerate all sorts of injustices meted out to them.”
“Now the people have risen up, and therefore no amount of repression will be able to subdue our struggle.” she asserted.
She demanded of the government to take immediate steps to rescue Shankar Chakma.
“The army and the government always maintain double standards.” she alleged, adding “when any Bengali people are kidnapped the army and the civil administration immediately throw themselves into action; but in the case of a Jumma they don’t even raise a finger.”
“This is such kind of communal and racist attitude of the government and the army which is contributing to the problems of the CHT.” she said.
PCP stages demo against attack on HWF office in Lakshmichari
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News No. 96/2009, August 6, 2009
The Hill Student’s Council Dhaka Unit staged a demonstration in Dhaka today in protest against attacks on HWF members in Lakshmichari, Khagrachari.
At a rally held at Muktangon, PCP leader Thuikyo Ching Marma condemned the attack and demanded immediate arrest of the culprits.
He held the local army commander responsible for instigating some youths to obstruct the democratic activities of the HWF and shut down its office.
The rally was also addressed by Sumen Chakma and Pushpo Shekhor Chakma.
Before the rally, the PCP activists took out a procession.
News No. 96/2009, August 6, 2009
The Hill Student’s Council Dhaka Unit staged a demonstration in Dhaka today in protest against attacks on HWF members in Lakshmichari, Khagrachari.
At a rally held at Muktangon, PCP leader Thuikyo Ching Marma condemned the attack and demanded immediate arrest of the culprits.
He held the local army commander responsible for instigating some youths to obstruct the democratic activities of the HWF and shut down its office.
The rally was also addressed by Sumen Chakma and Pushpo Shekhor Chakma.
Before the rally, the PCP activists took out a procession.
Meena Chakma demands punishment for her rapist Nazrul Hassan
chtnews.com
News No. 95/2009, August 5, 2009
Rape victim Meena Chakma and her family members at a press conference in Khagrachari today demanded exemplary punishment to rapist Nazrul Hassan, an employee of the Grameen Bank. (Photographs of the press conference attached)
Held at Khagrachari press club at 10am, the press conference was co-sponsored by Hill Women’s Federation.
HWF Khagrachari Unit president Rina Dewan read out a written text, while Meena Chakma, the victim, narrated the whole incident.
Her mother Anita Chakma and sister Rina Chakma were also present at the press conference.
When asked, Meena Chakma said she knew Nazrul by face and had seen him many times before the incident.
She also demanded that the Grameen Bank provides support and lifetime maintenance for her.
In the written statement Rina Dewan said a medical test conducted in Khagrachari hospital has found that Meena Chakma was raped.
She alleged that the police not only failed to arrest the culprit but also helped him to flee.
“The SI of Dighinala police station, Md. Farooq has been trying to force the family members of Meena Chakma to come to a compromise with Nazrul Hassan and settle the issue outside the court.” she said.
She put forward a 4-point demand which included punishment for rapist Nazrul Hassan, taking steps to stop such incidents in future, adequate compensation to the victim and a moratorium on micro credit programme in the CHT.
Terrorists shut HWF office in Lakshmichari
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News No. 94/2009, August 5, 2009
A group of terrorists today locked the office of the Hill Women’s Federation in Lakshmichari after kicking its members out.
HWF General Secretary Konica Dewan alleged that at around 1:30pm 5 – 7 club-wielding terrorists led by Russel and Sadhan went to the office of the Lakshmichari Unit of the HWF, forced HWF members out and locked the office.
“The terrorists identified themselves as members of the ruling Awami League,” she said adding that “they also assaulted Madri Chakma when she refused to go out of the office.”
Besides Madri Chakma, other HWF members present there were Neepa Chakma, Bobita Chakma, Rina Chakma and Sadhana Chakma.
Before this incident, at about 10:30am the Officer-in-charge of Lakshmichari police station, Md. Belayet Hossain visited the office and ordered them to shut down the office.
“The OC said he was merely conveying the order of the UNO”. Konica told chtnews.com from Khagrachari.
But HWF refused to shut down their office and asked the OC to come up with a formal legal order for it.
The HWF Lakshmichari Unit had reopened its office a couple of days ago and decided to organise a discussion on the plights of the Jumma women in the Chittagong Hill Tracts on 8 August.
Meanwhile, reports said HWF contacted Jotindra Lal Tripura MP and apprised him of the incident.
Mr. Tripura disowned the terrorists and is reported to have ordered their immediate arrest. He is also reported to have ordered the local administration of Lakshmichari to provide necessary assistance to HWF in reopening its office.
News No. 94/2009, August 5, 2009
A group of terrorists today locked the office of the Hill Women’s Federation in Lakshmichari after kicking its members out.
HWF General Secretary Konica Dewan alleged that at around 1:30pm 5 – 7 club-wielding terrorists led by Russel and Sadhan went to the office of the Lakshmichari Unit of the HWF, forced HWF members out and locked the office.
“The terrorists identified themselves as members of the ruling Awami League,” she said adding that “they also assaulted Madri Chakma when she refused to go out of the office.”
Besides Madri Chakma, other HWF members present there were Neepa Chakma, Bobita Chakma, Rina Chakma and Sadhana Chakma.
Before this incident, at about 10:30am the Officer-in-charge of Lakshmichari police station, Md. Belayet Hossain visited the office and ordered them to shut down the office.
“The OC said he was merely conveying the order of the UNO”. Konica told chtnews.com from Khagrachari.
But HWF refused to shut down their office and asked the OC to come up with a formal legal order for it.
The HWF Lakshmichari Unit had reopened its office a couple of days ago and decided to organise a discussion on the plights of the Jumma women in the Chittagong Hill Tracts on 8 August.
Meanwhile, reports said HWF contacted Jotindra Lal Tripura MP and apprised him of the incident.
Mr. Tripura disowned the terrorists and is reported to have ordered their immediate arrest. He is also reported to have ordered the local administration of Lakshmichari to provide necessary assistance to HWF in reopening its office.
JSS men kidnap UPDF supporter in Rangamati
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News No. 93/2009, August 4, 2009
The Santu Larma loyalists kidnapped Shankar Chakma, a supporter of the United People’s Democratic Front (UPDF), from Rangamati stadium on 30 July.
The 22-year-old went there to watch a football match. The incident occurred at around 5pm when he was preparing to return home after the end of the match.
A group of PCJSS men led by Banchi Chakma, president of Ghagra Unit of Santu Larma-backed PCP, abducted him at gun point.
The kidnappers demanded a sum of Taka 300,000 from his parents as a precondition for his release. However, they lowered the sum to Taka 250,000 later on, it is learnt.
The abductors did not release him till yesterday, 3 August. Mr. Chakma is a staunch supporter of the UPDF. His father’s name is Tusher Kanti Chakma and he is a resident of village Moghaichari Joutha Khamar, Kawkhali, Rangamati.
News No. 93/2009, August 4, 2009
The Santu Larma loyalists kidnapped Shankar Chakma, a supporter of the United People’s Democratic Front (UPDF), from Rangamati stadium on 30 July.
The 22-year-old went there to watch a football match. The incident occurred at around 5pm when he was preparing to return home after the end of the match.
A group of PCJSS men led by Banchi Chakma, president of Ghagra Unit of Santu Larma-backed PCP, abducted him at gun point.
The kidnappers demanded a sum of Taka 300,000 from his parents as a precondition for his release. However, they lowered the sum to Taka 250,000 later on, it is learnt.
The abductors did not release him till yesterday, 3 August. Mr. Chakma is a staunch supporter of the UPDF. His father’s name is Tusher Kanti Chakma and he is a resident of village Moghaichari Joutha Khamar, Kawkhali, Rangamati.
DYF demands complete troop pull-out
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News No. 92/2009, August 2, 2009
“Only a complete pull-out of troops from the Chittagong Hill Tracts can bring peace and stability in the area”.
This was stated by Mithun Chakma, General Secretary of the Democratic Youth Forum, while addressing as chief guest at a conference of its activists in Balaghata of southern CHT of Bandarban on 1 August.
Mithun Chakma said although the ultra rightist elements are raising a hue and cry over the government decision to pull back one army brigade out of five deployed in CHT, this is only a meagre step compared to the demands of the Jumma people.
“There will be no genuine peace unless there is a complete pull out of troops from the CHT who are being used as a tool of ethnic cleansing against, and of maintaining domination over, the Jumma people,” he added.
He also criticized the army for its role in instigating the settlers to grab land from the Jumma people.
Presided by Bikram Tonchongya, the conference was also addressed by UPDF Bandarban coordinator, Choton Kanti Tonchongya and DYF Organising Secretary Michael Chakma.
Choton Kanti said the Jumma people have been pushed to the wall long ago. “There is no other alternative than to fight back. We cannot sit idle when our lands are being taken away by the illegal settlers.” he added.
He urged the government to stop the process of acquiring 7570 acres of land belonging to the Murung nationality in Ruma.
“The ongoing attempt of the army to uproot thousands of Murung families in the name of expansion of Ruma garrison must be stopped” he said, adding: “We will not accept such gross injustices lying down any more.”
Michael Chakma said the entire government and state apparatus is biased against the Jummas. “The government is only serving the interest of the outsiders,” he added.
He termed the partial troop withdrawal announcement as eyewash and demanded that the government pull back the entire troops from the CHT.
News No. 92/2009, August 2, 2009
“Only a complete pull-out of troops from the Chittagong Hill Tracts can bring peace and stability in the area”.
This was stated by Mithun Chakma, General Secretary of the Democratic Youth Forum, while addressing as chief guest at a conference of its activists in Balaghata of southern CHT of Bandarban on 1 August.
Mithun Chakma said although the ultra rightist elements are raising a hue and cry over the government decision to pull back one army brigade out of five deployed in CHT, this is only a meagre step compared to the demands of the Jumma people.
“There will be no genuine peace unless there is a complete pull out of troops from the CHT who are being used as a tool of ethnic cleansing against, and of maintaining domination over, the Jumma people,” he added.
He also criticized the army for its role in instigating the settlers to grab land from the Jumma people.
Presided by Bikram Tonchongya, the conference was also addressed by UPDF Bandarban coordinator, Choton Kanti Tonchongya and DYF Organising Secretary Michael Chakma.
Choton Kanti said the Jumma people have been pushed to the wall long ago. “There is no other alternative than to fight back. We cannot sit idle when our lands are being taken away by the illegal settlers.” he added.
He urged the government to stop the process of acquiring 7570 acres of land belonging to the Murung nationality in Ruma.
“The ongoing attempt of the army to uproot thousands of Murung families in the name of expansion of Ruma garrison must be stopped” he said, adding: “We will not accept such gross injustices lying down any more.”
Michael Chakma said the entire government and state apparatus is biased against the Jummas. “The government is only serving the interest of the outsiders,” he added.
He termed the partial troop withdrawal announcement as eyewash and demanded that the government pull back the entire troops from the CHT.
HWF protests rape of Meena Chakma
chtnews.com
News No. 91/2009, August 1, 2009
The Hill Women’s Federation and Hill Student’s Council held rallies in Dighinala and Khagrachari today, Saturday, protesting against the rape of Meena Chakma by a Grameen Bank staff. (Meena Chakma’s photo attached)
In Dighinala, where the incident took place, the rally was held at Sadar Station at noon. It was addressed by Alo Jibon Chakma, General Secretary, PCP Dighinala Unit and Dipon Chakma, a member of Democratic Youth Forum.
The Khagrachari rally was held at Mukto Moncha in the town and was attended by 200 people, mostly women.
HWF leaders Konica Dewan, Rina Dewan and Juthika Chakma and PCP leader Subir Chakma addressed the rally.
The speakers condemned the rape of Meena Chakma and urged the government to bring the culprit to justice.
Ms Rina Dewan issued a 15-day ultimatum for the government to arrest Nazrul, the rapist.
The rally was preceded by a procession which took off from Upazila ground.
Meena Chakma, 20, a physically challenged person, was raped by Nazrul, a Grameen Bank staff, at her home in the village of Dighir Par in Boradom on Friday, July 31.
Hill Women’s Federation president Sonali Chakma, Hill Student’s Council president Ricoh Chakma and Democratic Youth Forum General Secretary Mithun Chakma condemned the incident and demanded immediate arrest of Nazrul.
They also demanded that the Grammen Bank stop its micro credit program in the Chittagong Hill Tracts.
“The so-called micro credit program is doing much harm to the Jumma people.” Sonali Chakma said, adding it is a conspiracy to destroy the Jumma peasants by burdening them with loans and interests.
Mithun Chakma said “The Jummas lived without micro credit in the past and they will do so in the future; so they don’t need the modern Shylocks like Grameen Bank.”
Jumma girl raped by Grameen Bank staff
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News No. 90/2009, July 31, 2009
A physically challenged Jumma girl has been raped by a Grameen Bank staff in Dighinala, Khagrachari, reports say. She has been admitted to Khagrachari Sadar Hospital with injuries.
The incident occurred at around 3:30pm today when Nazrul, a Grameen Bank staff, found Meena Chakma, 20, alone at home in the village of Dighir Par in Boradom. He went there to collect installments on loans payable by her parents to the Grameen Bank.
It is learnt that Meena’s parents Sunil Kanti Chakma and Anita Chakma took a small loan from the Grammen Bank couples of months ago.
As an installment on the loan became due, Nazrul, a field level staff of the Bank, went their house to collect it. But Meena’s parents were busy planting paddy in the field.
He found none except Meena in the house, raped her and then ran away.
Meena is physically challenged; she cannot walk because she has got her spinal cord broken.
Hill Women’s Federation president Sonali Chakma, Hill Student’s Council president Ricoh Chakma and Democratic Youth Forum General Secretary Mithun Chakma condemned the rape of Meena Chakma and demanded immediate arrest of Nazrul.
They also demanded that the Grammen Bank stop its micro credit program in the Chittagong Hill Tracts.
“The so-called micro credit program is doing much harm to the Jumma people.” Sonali Chakma said, adding it is a conspiracy to destroy the Jumma peasants by burdening them with loans and interests.
Mithun Chakma said “The Jummas lived without micro credit in the past and they will do so in the future; so we don’t need Sherlock Holmes like Grameen Bank.”
News No. 90/2009, July 31, 2009
A physically challenged Jumma girl has been raped by a Grameen Bank staff in Dighinala, Khagrachari, reports say. She has been admitted to Khagrachari Sadar Hospital with injuries.
The incident occurred at around 3:30pm today when Nazrul, a Grameen Bank staff, found Meena Chakma, 20, alone at home in the village of Dighir Par in Boradom. He went there to collect installments on loans payable by her parents to the Grameen Bank.
It is learnt that Meena’s parents Sunil Kanti Chakma and Anita Chakma took a small loan from the Grammen Bank couples of months ago.
As an installment on the loan became due, Nazrul, a field level staff of the Bank, went their house to collect it. But Meena’s parents were busy planting paddy in the field.
He found none except Meena in the house, raped her and then ran away.
Meena is physically challenged; she cannot walk because she has got her spinal cord broken.
Hill Women’s Federation president Sonali Chakma, Hill Student’s Council president Ricoh Chakma and Democratic Youth Forum General Secretary Mithun Chakma condemned the rape of Meena Chakma and demanded immediate arrest of Nazrul.
They also demanded that the Grammen Bank stop its micro credit program in the Chittagong Hill Tracts.
“The so-called micro credit program is doing much harm to the Jumma people.” Sonali Chakma said, adding it is a conspiracy to destroy the Jumma peasants by burdening them with loans and interests.
Mithun Chakma said “The Jummas lived without micro credit in the past and they will do so in the future; so we don’t need Sherlock Holmes like Grameen Bank.”
Troop withdrawl decision an eyewash: UPDF
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News No. 89/2009, July 30, 2009
The United Peoples Democratic Front (UPDF) has termed as eyewash the government announcement to pull back Kaptai Brigade, and demanded a complete withdrawal of the army from the Chittagong Hill Tracts.
Talking to the Daily Star, UPDF Khagrachari Unit leader Rina Dewan said “the government is pulling out the camps and forces, which are not required any more. It is not being done as part of the implementation process of the accord.”
Commenting on the government decision to pull back one brigade of troops from CHT, an independent observer said if the decision was “made after analysing the law and order” of the area, the government should have withdrawn troops from all other parts of the CHT as well or at least given first priority to Khagrachari district because the law and order situation in this district is much better than any other parts of the CHT.
“But obviously law and order was not in the mind of the government while taking the decision,” he said adding that the question of protecting the illegal settlers was the prime consideration for the government.
He said the government has decided to pull out troops from the Kaptai brigade because there are no illegal settlers in that area, and hence troops are no longer required there.
However, he hailed the troop withdrawal decision of the government, and said the real challenge for the government was to pull out from other parts of the CHT as well.
Commenting on Brig Gen (retd) M Sakhawat Hossain’s suggestion that “regular law enforcement agencies will have to keep vigil on the activities of United People's Democratic Front (UPDF)” as reported in the The Daily Star, he said in its manifesto the UPDF has clearly stated that it will try to achieve its goal through peaceful and democratic means.
“It is not clear what he (M Sakhawat Hossain) has meant by the words “keep vigil” and why a democratic organisation like UPDF should be mete out such discriminatory measures.” he added.
He further said the army is a threat to peace and democracy in the CHT. “The army is violating the democratic rights of the Jumma people. They are harassing and torturing innocent villagers, raiding and searching houses in the dead of night and instigating the settlers to grab lands from the Jumma people.”
“There will be no peace in the CHT until and unless a complete withdrawal of troops takes place.” he commented.
News No. 89/2009, July 30, 2009
The United Peoples Democratic Front (UPDF) has termed as eyewash the government announcement to pull back Kaptai Brigade, and demanded a complete withdrawal of the army from the Chittagong Hill Tracts.
Talking to the Daily Star, UPDF Khagrachari Unit leader Rina Dewan said “the government is pulling out the camps and forces, which are not required any more. It is not being done as part of the implementation process of the accord.”
Commenting on the government decision to pull back one brigade of troops from CHT, an independent observer said if the decision was “made after analysing the law and order” of the area, the government should have withdrawn troops from all other parts of the CHT as well or at least given first priority to Khagrachari district because the law and order situation in this district is much better than any other parts of the CHT.
“But obviously law and order was not in the mind of the government while taking the decision,” he said adding that the question of protecting the illegal settlers was the prime consideration for the government.
He said the government has decided to pull out troops from the Kaptai brigade because there are no illegal settlers in that area, and hence troops are no longer required there.
However, he hailed the troop withdrawal decision of the government, and said the real challenge for the government was to pull out from other parts of the CHT as well.
Commenting on Brig Gen (retd) M Sakhawat Hossain’s suggestion that “regular law enforcement agencies will have to keep vigil on the activities of United People's Democratic Front (UPDF)” as reported in the The Daily Star, he said in its manifesto the UPDF has clearly stated that it will try to achieve its goal through peaceful and democratic means.
“It is not clear what he (M Sakhawat Hossain) has meant by the words “keep vigil” and why a democratic organisation like UPDF should be mete out such discriminatory measures.” he added.
He further said the army is a threat to peace and democracy in the CHT. “The army is violating the democratic rights of the Jumma people. They are harassing and torturing innocent villagers, raiding and searching houses in the dead of night and instigating the settlers to grab lands from the Jumma people.”
“There will be no peace in the CHT until and unless a complete withdrawal of troops takes place.” he commented.
Army, JSS (Santu) conduct joint raid in Mubachari
chtnews.com
News No. 88/2009, July 27, 2009
Two Jummas have been tortured during a joint raid into a village in
Mahalchari of Khagrachari district by Bangladesh Army soldiers and the
armed members of the Jana Samhati Samiti (Santu Group), according to
sources.
Army personnel from three zones – Naniachar, Mahalchari and Mainie –
conducted the raid today at around 8am.
The soldiers advanced from three directions and surrounded Mubachari
area, believed to be a stronghold of the anti-Larma faction of the
Jana Samhati Samiti.
Eight members of the Santu Group accompanied the army, eyewitnesses said.
“They were dressed in army fatigues and were carrying automatic
weapons,” an NGO worker told chtnews.com quoting villagers.
“The JSS men also made announcements in Chakma language through a hand
mike.” They urged their rival faction to surrender.” he added.
“If you come and give yourselves up, we will find you jobs.” the
announcement said.
The army and the JSS men beat up Sharat Kumar Chakma’s two sons --
Priti Purno Chakma (45) and Kironmoy Chakma (32) — accusing them of
being sympathizers of anti-Santu faction of the JSS.
The JSS men also ransacked the house of Kalo Baran Chakma (35) in the
village of Edho Khul Chara under Mubachari area.
The soldiers and the JSS men left the area around noon.
News No. 88/2009, July 27, 2009
Two Jummas have been tortured during a joint raid into a village in
Mahalchari of Khagrachari district by Bangladesh Army soldiers and the
armed members of the Jana Samhati Samiti (Santu Group), according to
sources.
Army personnel from three zones – Naniachar, Mahalchari and Mainie –
conducted the raid today at around 8am.
The soldiers advanced from three directions and surrounded Mubachari
area, believed to be a stronghold of the anti-Larma faction of the
Jana Samhati Samiti.
Eight members of the Santu Group accompanied the army, eyewitnesses said.
“They were dressed in army fatigues and were carrying automatic
weapons,” an NGO worker told chtnews.com quoting villagers.
“The JSS men also made announcements in Chakma language through a hand
mike.” They urged their rival faction to surrender.” he added.
“If you come and give yourselves up, we will find you jobs.” the
announcement said.
The army and the JSS men beat up Sharat Kumar Chakma’s two sons --
Priti Purno Chakma (45) and Kironmoy Chakma (32) — accusing them of
being sympathizers of anti-Santu faction of the JSS.
The JSS men also ransacked the house of Kalo Baran Chakma (35) in the
village of Edho Khul Chara under Mubachari area.
The soldiers and the JSS men left the area around noon.
Two JSS (Rupayan) members arrested in Dighinala
chtnews.com
News No. 87/2009, July 21, 2009
Two members of a faction the Jana Samhati Samiti (Real) led by Rupayan
Dewan have been arrested in Dighinala, Khagrachari, sources said.
The police arrested JSS members Nishit Chakma and Naresh Chakma from
Dighinala bazaar at 3pm today, Tuesday, presumably in connection with
the disappearance of two Bengali settlers in Merung area, they added.
JSS has condemned the arrest and demanded their unconditional release.
..............................
News No. 87/2009, July 21, 2009
Two members of a faction the Jana Samhati Samiti (Real) led by Rupayan
Dewan have been arrested in Dighinala, Khagrachari, sources said.
The police arrested JSS members Nishit Chakma and Naresh Chakma from
Dighinala bazaar at 3pm today, Tuesday, presumably in connection with
the disappearance of two Bengali settlers in Merung area, they added.
JSS has condemned the arrest and demanded their unconditional release.
..............................
Brigade commander’s speech at Guimara rally tantamount to incitement - analysts
chtnews.com
News No. 86/2009, July 16, 2009
Guimara Brigade Commander Latiful Haider’s 15-July speech at a rally
in Jaliapara is a direct incitement to violence, political analysts
commented.
A college teacher in Khagrachari said it was the responsibility of an
elected government to resolve any land related problem. “The army has
no role in this respect. Yet, they are complicating the problem by
sticking their nose in the affairs of the civil administration.” he
added.
Another teacher from Matiranga commented: “What the Brigade commander
said in his speech yesterday is a clear proof that the army is not
impartial and that they are here on a special and secret mission.”
Terming the grabbing of Jumma people’s lands as serious, he said “what
we are seeing today in CHT is nothing but ethnic cleansing in slow
motion.”
Held at Saing-guli Borpilak Government Primary School ground, the
rally was virtually boycotted by both Bengali and Jumma people.
One estimate put the number of the participants at 250 – of which
Jummas amount to merely 25.
A resident in Guimara told chtnews.com the organisers had sent out
jeeps in all directions to ferry people to and from the venue of the
rally, but almost all the jeeps had come back empty.
Many alleged that the army had forced many Jummas to join the rally.
“The soldiers caught hold of anyone they saw, gathered them together
in Ballyachari camp and then sent them to the venue” said one of the
participants.
Monkya Marma, who was forced to participate in the rally, said “I was
in a roadside tea shop at Ballyachari Rubber Plantation No. 1 when the
army came and picked me up.”
“They just told me that I would have to go to a rally with them.” he added.
Uggyo Marma of the same area said he would not join the rally had not
the army forced him to do so. He said he was working when the army
picked him up.
In his speech the Brigade Commander said it was the terrorists who
were behind the resistance to the settler attempt at land grabbing in
Boroitali in mid June.
The commander further said the settlers would move to Boroitali, and
the army would provide all kinds of supports to them.
“The army will build a camp in Boroitali to protect the settlers.” he added.
The Democratic Youth Forum in a statement severely criticized the
Guimara Brigade Commander for inciting the settlers to violence and
fomenting unrest.
News No. 86/2009, July 16, 2009
Guimara Brigade Commander Latiful Haider’s 15-July speech at a rally
in Jaliapara is a direct incitement to violence, political analysts
commented.
A college teacher in Khagrachari said it was the responsibility of an
elected government to resolve any land related problem. “The army has
no role in this respect. Yet, they are complicating the problem by
sticking their nose in the affairs of the civil administration.” he
added.
Another teacher from Matiranga commented: “What the Brigade commander
said in his speech yesterday is a clear proof that the army is not
impartial and that they are here on a special and secret mission.”
Terming the grabbing of Jumma people’s lands as serious, he said “what
we are seeing today in CHT is nothing but ethnic cleansing in slow
motion.”
Held at Saing-guli Borpilak Government Primary School ground, the
rally was virtually boycotted by both Bengali and Jumma people.
One estimate put the number of the participants at 250 – of which
Jummas amount to merely 25.
A resident in Guimara told chtnews.com the organisers had sent out
jeeps in all directions to ferry people to and from the venue of the
rally, but almost all the jeeps had come back empty.
Many alleged that the army had forced many Jummas to join the rally.
“The soldiers caught hold of anyone they saw, gathered them together
in Ballyachari camp and then sent them to the venue” said one of the
participants.
Monkya Marma, who was forced to participate in the rally, said “I was
in a roadside tea shop at Ballyachari Rubber Plantation No. 1 when the
army came and picked me up.”
“They just told me that I would have to go to a rally with them.” he added.
Uggyo Marma of the same area said he would not join the rally had not
the army forced him to do so. He said he was working when the army
picked him up.
In his speech the Brigade Commander said it was the terrorists who
were behind the resistance to the settler attempt at land grabbing in
Boroitali in mid June.
The commander further said the settlers would move to Boroitali, and
the army would provide all kinds of supports to them.
“The army will build a camp in Boroitali to protect the settlers.” he added.
The Democratic Youth Forum in a statement severely criticized the
Guimara Brigade Commander for inciting the settlers to violence and
fomenting unrest.
Breaking News: JSS kidnaps 3 UPDF supporters in Rangamati
chtnews.com July 12, 2009
Jana Samhati Samiti members loyal to Santu Larma have kidnapped three
UPDF supporters from Raj Bana Vihara gate in Rangamati town.
They were kidnapped a few minutes ago, at 8:20pm, while they were
returning from the Vihara after paying homage to the Great Bana
Bhante.
They have been taken to the residence of Santu Larma, one source in
Rangamati said.
The victims have been identified as Satya Brata Chakma (26) s/o Amrita
Chakma and Kalachan Chakma (23) s/o Purna Chandra Chakma, General
Secretary and Office Secretary of PCP Jurachari Unit respectively, and
Suman Chakma (24) s/o Kamini Kumar Master, a member of Democratic
Youth Forum, Jurachari Unit.
A group of about 30 -40 JSS members and supporters led by Udayan
Tripura, president of Santu Larma backed PCP, took part in the
kidnapping.
Jana Samhati Samiti members loyal to Santu Larma have kidnapped three
UPDF supporters from Raj Bana Vihara gate in Rangamati town.
They were kidnapped a few minutes ago, at 8:20pm, while they were
returning from the Vihara after paying homage to the Great Bana
Bhante.
They have been taken to the residence of Santu Larma, one source in
Rangamati said.
The victims have been identified as Satya Brata Chakma (26) s/o Amrita
Chakma and Kalachan Chakma (23) s/o Purna Chandra Chakma, General
Secretary and Office Secretary of PCP Jurachari Unit respectively, and
Suman Chakma (24) s/o Kamini Kumar Master, a member of Democratic
Youth Forum, Jurachari Unit.
A group of about 30 -40 JSS members and supporters led by Udayan
Tripura, president of Santu Larma backed PCP, took part in the
kidnapping.
Anti-land grabbing rally held defying army-police obstruction
chtnews.com
News No. 85/2009, July 10, 2009
At least 11 Jummas were wounded in army and police actions as the
Democratic Youth Forum and Boroitali Land Protection Committee held a
rally in Manikchari, Khagrachari today.
The army also arrested a participant – Chathoai-u Marma (25) – while
he was returning home after attending the rally. He was arrested from
Amtali in Manikchari town. The army handed him over to the police, it
is learnt.
Mithun Chakma, General Secretary of Democratic Youth Forum, condemned
the arrest of Mr. Marma and the brutality with which the army and
police tried to foil the peaceful rally organised to protest the
continuing land grabbing in CHT.
The DYF leader demanded the immediate and unconditional release of
Chathoai-u Marma.
The scheduled anti-land grabbing rally was turned in to protest rally,
and an estimated 4,000 took part in it, defying army and police
brutality and obstructions.
Organising Secretary of DYF, Michael Chakma and Acting General
Secretary of the Hill Women’s Federation, Konika Dewan addressed the
rally. They condemned the attempt of the army and police to foil the
rally by using brute force, and termed their action as fascist.
At the last minute, the organisers shifted the venue of the rally from
Rani Nihar Devi Government High School ground to College Gate to avoid
confrontation with the police.
The Bangladesh Army soldiers were deployed in a number of locations to
prevent the Jummas from reaching Mainkcahri.
In Matiranga, the police blocked five jeeps carrying about 200
persons. They were coming from Khagrachari to participate in the
rally. When they tried to protest, the police resorted to
indiscriminate baton charges and injured 10 of them, including members
of the Hill Women’s Federation.
About 600 persons set out from Lakshmichari in 17 jeeps but they were
halted at Chittagong – Khagrachari border point. The members of the
Ansar Battalion detained the jeep drivers in the camp.
In Lakshmichari, the army refused to allow any vehicle out of the
town. About 800 Jummas gathered there waiting to be ferried to the
rally. When they protested the decision of the army, they were met
with violent action. The police forced them to disperse.
The army also blocked Apruchi Marma, President of PCP Manikchari Unit,
and another member of the PCP, at Moghaichari army camp. They were
going to Lakshmichari from Manikchari to lead the protest
demonstration there.
As no jeep and bus of the organisers were allowed to go to Manikchri,
many Jummas tried to reach the venue of the rally using normal
passenger buses. However, the army also prevented their attempt, and
pulled them down from the buses.
The army checked each and every vehicle coming from Khagrchari and
forced the Jumma passengers to get down. They could not reach their
destinations.
At around 11am the army beat Suija-u Chowdhury (25) s/o Jotindra
Chowdhury at Manikchari College. A soldier hit him in the head with a
stick, wounding him seriously. Mr. Chowdhury is from the village of
Bholachola under Momprue Mouza and belongs to Marma nationality.
Captain Sarwar from Lakshmicahri zone was present when he was being
beaten up.
The army and police actions are in betrayal of the commitment made by
Manikchari Upazila Nirbahi Officer Mohiuddin Kabir Mahin to cooperate
with the organisers.
All had been going on well until yesterday when the UNO suddenly
volte-faced urging the organisers not to hold the rally.
The army also came out with their true colour when they threatened the
bus and jeep owners associations not to ferry the participants to the
venue of the rally.
On Thursday night, the army called lineman of Jaliapara Bus Owners
Association to Guimara zone and threatened him with dire consequences
if he dared to allow buses and jeeps to be hired by the organisers.
Later Jubo League leaders also threatened him.
The President and General Secretary of the jeep owners association
were also summoned to Choichala BDR camp in Ramgarh on Thursday night
and were threatened not to help the organisers by providing jeeps to
them.
News No. 85/2009, July 10, 2009
At least 11 Jummas were wounded in army and police actions as the
Democratic Youth Forum and Boroitali Land Protection Committee held a
rally in Manikchari, Khagrachari today.
The army also arrested a participant – Chathoai-u Marma (25) – while
he was returning home after attending the rally. He was arrested from
Amtali in Manikchari town. The army handed him over to the police, it
is learnt.
Mithun Chakma, General Secretary of Democratic Youth Forum, condemned
the arrest of Mr. Marma and the brutality with which the army and
police tried to foil the peaceful rally organised to protest the
continuing land grabbing in CHT.
The DYF leader demanded the immediate and unconditional release of
Chathoai-u Marma.
The scheduled anti-land grabbing rally was turned in to protest rally,
and an estimated 4,000 took part in it, defying army and police
brutality and obstructions.
Organising Secretary of DYF, Michael Chakma and Acting General
Secretary of the Hill Women’s Federation, Konika Dewan addressed the
rally. They condemned the attempt of the army and police to foil the
rally by using brute force, and termed their action as fascist.
At the last minute, the organisers shifted the venue of the rally from
Rani Nihar Devi Government High School ground to College Gate to avoid
confrontation with the police.
The Bangladesh Army soldiers were deployed in a number of locations to
prevent the Jummas from reaching Mainkcahri.
In Matiranga, the police blocked five jeeps carrying about 200
persons. They were coming from Khagrachari to participate in the
rally. When they tried to protest, the police resorted to
indiscriminate baton charges and injured 10 of them, including members
of the Hill Women’s Federation.
About 600 persons set out from Lakshmichari in 17 jeeps but they were
halted at Chittagong – Khagrachari border point. The members of the
Ansar Battalion detained the jeep drivers in the camp.
In Lakshmichari, the army refused to allow any vehicle out of the
town. About 800 Jummas gathered there waiting to be ferried to the
rally. When they protested the decision of the army, they were met
with violent action. The police forced them to disperse.
The army also blocked Apruchi Marma, President of PCP Manikchari Unit,
and another member of the PCP, at Moghaichari army camp. They were
going to Lakshmichari from Manikchari to lead the protest
demonstration there.
As no jeep and bus of the organisers were allowed to go to Manikchri,
many Jummas tried to reach the venue of the rally using normal
passenger buses. However, the army also prevented their attempt, and
pulled them down from the buses.
The army checked each and every vehicle coming from Khagrchari and
forced the Jumma passengers to get down. They could not reach their
destinations.
At around 11am the army beat Suija-u Chowdhury (25) s/o Jotindra
Chowdhury at Manikchari College. A soldier hit him in the head with a
stick, wounding him seriously. Mr. Chowdhury is from the village of
Bholachola under Momprue Mouza and belongs to Marma nationality.
Captain Sarwar from Lakshmicahri zone was present when he was being
beaten up.
The army and police actions are in betrayal of the commitment made by
Manikchari Upazila Nirbahi Officer Mohiuddin Kabir Mahin to cooperate
with the organisers.
All had been going on well until yesterday when the UNO suddenly
volte-faced urging the organisers not to hold the rally.
The army also came out with their true colour when they threatened the
bus and jeep owners associations not to ferry the participants to the
venue of the rally.
On Thursday night, the army called lineman of Jaliapara Bus Owners
Association to Guimara zone and threatened him with dire consequences
if he dared to allow buses and jeeps to be hired by the organisers.
Later Jubo League leaders also threatened him.
The President and General Secretary of the jeep owners association
were also summoned to Choichala BDR camp in Ramgarh on Thursday night
and were threatened not to help the organisers by providing jeeps to
them.
Govt. is conspiring to foil our program: DYF
chtnews.com
News No. 84/2009, July 09, 2009
DEMOCRATIC YOUTH FORUM’S GENERAL SECRETARY, MITHUN CHAKMA HAS ALLEGED
THAT THE GOVERNMENT IS CONSPIRING TO FOIL THEIR RALLY SCHEDULED TO BE
HELD TOMORROW, 10 JULY, IN MANKICHARI, KHAGRACHARI DISTRICT.
He said the UNO had been duly informed of the rally in writing, and
that his promise to provide necessary support had also been obtained.
“But as the date for the rally is nearing, the UNO Mohiuddin Kabir
Mahin has suddenly reversed his decision which surprised the
organisers.” he said.
A team of the organisers led by PCP General Secretary Aungay Marma met
with the UNO to discuss the tomorrow’s rally scheduled to be held at
Rani Nihar Devi Government High School ground at 1pm.
Mr. Marma quoted the UNO as telling him: “I am ready to provide all
the necessary cooperation if the DC or SP gives permission (to hold
the rally)”.
The team also contacted the OC Md. Abul Kashem, only to hear the same refrain.
However, he tacitly admitted facing pressure from the military
administration. “If the military pressures us, then we are helpless on
the issue.” the OC is quoted as saying.
Both the UNO and OC dissuaded the organisers from holding the rally.
The organisers then contacted Manikchari Upazila chairman Md. Jobbar,
who told them that the rally might be provocative for the BNP and Sama
Odhikar Andolan, a platform of the settlers.
Mithun Chakma said they would discuss the situation and take the right
decision. He termed the civil administration as puppet of the army.
“The reversal of the decision goes a long way to prove that it is the
army who rules the roost in CHT. The army is the greatest impediment
to peace and democracy in this part of the country; they are the evil
force (shoitan), acting as a colonial ruler.” Mithun added.
The rally is being organised jointly by Boroitali Land Protection
Committee and Democratic Youth Forum to protest against continuous
land grabbing in the area.
Another report says the army in Lakshmichari has threatened the bus
and jeep owners and drivers not to ferry the participants to the
rally.
The organisers entered into a contract with the bus and jeep owners
well in advance, but after the army pressure they are refusing to
adhere to the terms of the deal, Aungcha Ching Marma told chtnews.com.
News No. 84/2009, July 09, 2009
DEMOCRATIC YOUTH FORUM’S GENERAL SECRETARY, MITHUN CHAKMA HAS ALLEGED
THAT THE GOVERNMENT IS CONSPIRING TO FOIL THEIR RALLY SCHEDULED TO BE
HELD TOMORROW, 10 JULY, IN MANKICHARI, KHAGRACHARI DISTRICT.
He said the UNO had been duly informed of the rally in writing, and
that his promise to provide necessary support had also been obtained.
“But as the date for the rally is nearing, the UNO Mohiuddin Kabir
Mahin has suddenly reversed his decision which surprised the
organisers.” he said.
A team of the organisers led by PCP General Secretary Aungay Marma met
with the UNO to discuss the tomorrow’s rally scheduled to be held at
Rani Nihar Devi Government High School ground at 1pm.
Mr. Marma quoted the UNO as telling him: “I am ready to provide all
the necessary cooperation if the DC or SP gives permission (to hold
the rally)”.
The team also contacted the OC Md. Abul Kashem, only to hear the same refrain.
However, he tacitly admitted facing pressure from the military
administration. “If the military pressures us, then we are helpless on
the issue.” the OC is quoted as saying.
Both the UNO and OC dissuaded the organisers from holding the rally.
The organisers then contacted Manikchari Upazila chairman Md. Jobbar,
who told them that the rally might be provocative for the BNP and Sama
Odhikar Andolan, a platform of the settlers.
Mithun Chakma said they would discuss the situation and take the right
decision. He termed the civil administration as puppet of the army.
“The reversal of the decision goes a long way to prove that it is the
army who rules the roost in CHT. The army is the greatest impediment
to peace and democracy in this part of the country; they are the evil
force (shoitan), acting as a colonial ruler.” Mithun added.
The rally is being organised jointly by Boroitali Land Protection
Committee and Democratic Youth Forum to protest against continuous
land grabbing in the area.
Another report says the army in Lakshmichari has threatened the bus
and jeep owners and drivers not to ferry the participants to the
rally.
The organisers entered into a contract with the bus and jeep owners
well in advance, but after the army pressure they are refusing to
adhere to the terms of the deal, Aungcha Ching Marma told chtnews.com.
“We’ll continue to grab your lands” – Warrant Officer Rezaul in Sajek
chtnews.com
News No. 83/2009, July 08, 2009
“YOU MAY PAY SECRET VISITS TO SULTANA KAMAL (CO-CHAIR, CHT
INTERNATIONAL COMMISSION) AND TELL HER WHATEVER YOU LIKE AND YOU MAY
STAGE THOUSANDS OF DEMONSTRATIONS IN AND OUTSIDE CHT, NOTHING WILL
HAPPEN TO US, WE WILL CONTINUTE WITH OUR JOB AND GRAB YOUR LANDS”.
A Sajek resident quoted Warrant Officer Rezaul from Baghaihat zone as
saying this to Kalachulo Chakma and Swapanika Chakma, member, Ward No.
16, Sajek Union Council, yesterday when he met them at Baghaihat
bazaar.
On 2 July, eight torture victims from Sajek met with Advocate Sultana
Kamal, Executive Director of Ain-o-Salish Kendra, and Co-chair of
Chittagong Hill Tracts International Commission, at her office in
Dhaka and submitted a memorandum to her.
Rezaul was alluding to this meeting, which was neither secret nor confidential.
..............................
News No. 83/2009, July 08, 2009
“YOU MAY PAY SECRET VISITS TO SULTANA KAMAL (CO-CHAIR, CHT
INTERNATIONAL COMMISSION) AND TELL HER WHATEVER YOU LIKE AND YOU MAY
STAGE THOUSANDS OF DEMONSTRATIONS IN AND OUTSIDE CHT, NOTHING WILL
HAPPEN TO US, WE WILL CONTINUTE WITH OUR JOB AND GRAB YOUR LANDS”.
A Sajek resident quoted Warrant Officer Rezaul from Baghaihat zone as
saying this to Kalachulo Chakma and Swapanika Chakma, member, Ward No.
16, Sajek Union Council, yesterday when he met them at Baghaihat
bazaar.
On 2 July, eight torture victims from Sajek met with Advocate Sultana
Kamal, Executive Director of Ain-o-Salish Kendra, and Co-chair of
Chittagong Hill Tracts International Commission, at her office in
Dhaka and submitted a memorandum to her.
Rezaul was alluding to this meeting, which was neither secret nor confidential.
..............................
PCP ACTIVIST ASSAULTED BY SANTU LOYALISTS IN DHAKA
chtnews.com
News No. 82/2009, July 08, 2009
THUI KYO CHING MARMA, OFFICE SECRETARY OF THE HILL STUDENTS’ COUNCIL
(PCP), A FRONT ORGANISATION OF THE UNITED PEOPLE’S DEMOCRATIC FRONT,
WAS ASSAULTED BY SANTU LARMY LOYALISTS IN DHAKA ON TUESDAY, YESTERDAY.
When contacted, Mr. Thuiko Marma told chtenws.com that he and his
friends were sipping tea at a tea shop in front of Dhaka University
Central Library at 1pm after participating in a rally on the campus.
“All on a sudden, I was hit in the head from behind.” Thuiko said,
adding “the JSS terrorists were 6 in number and led by Bablu and
Batayan.”
“After that they began to punch me from all side. I was trying to
defend myself. My friend Arnob from Biplobi Chattra Jubo Andolon
barged forward in my defence, and so did Samiul Alam Richi, President
of Bangladesh Chattra Federation, and others.”
Thuiko further said the JSS loyalists had threatened him earlier not
to come to the campus.
“Bablu called me at my mobile phone at 11am the same day and
threatened me not to come to the campus and to refrain from political
activities.” he added.
In protest against the assault, the left leaning Five Students
Organisations, of which PCP is a component organisation, held a press
conference today at Madhu’s Canteen on Dhaka University campus and
demanded exemplary punishment for the culprits.
The leaders of these organisations termed the JSS loyalists who were
involved in the assault of Thuiko as terrorists, and said the incident
testified to the complete degeneration of Santu Larma and his
loyalists into government collaborators.
News No. 82/2009, July 08, 2009
THUI KYO CHING MARMA, OFFICE SECRETARY OF THE HILL STUDENTS’ COUNCIL
(PCP), A FRONT ORGANISATION OF THE UNITED PEOPLE’S DEMOCRATIC FRONT,
WAS ASSAULTED BY SANTU LARMY LOYALISTS IN DHAKA ON TUESDAY, YESTERDAY.
When contacted, Mr. Thuiko Marma told chtenws.com that he and his
friends were sipping tea at a tea shop in front of Dhaka University
Central Library at 1pm after participating in a rally on the campus.
“All on a sudden, I was hit in the head from behind.” Thuiko said,
adding “the JSS terrorists were 6 in number and led by Bablu and
Batayan.”
“After that they began to punch me from all side. I was trying to
defend myself. My friend Arnob from Biplobi Chattra Jubo Andolon
barged forward in my defence, and so did Samiul Alam Richi, President
of Bangladesh Chattra Federation, and others.”
Thuiko further said the JSS loyalists had threatened him earlier not
to come to the campus.
“Bablu called me at my mobile phone at 11am the same day and
threatened me not to come to the campus and to refrain from political
activities.” he added.
In protest against the assault, the left leaning Five Students
Organisations, of which PCP is a component organisation, held a press
conference today at Madhu’s Canteen on Dhaka University campus and
demanded exemplary punishment for the culprits.
The leaders of these organisations termed the JSS loyalists who were
involved in the assault of Thuiko as terrorists, and said the incident
testified to the complete degeneration of Santu Larma and his
loyalists into government collaborators.
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