chtnews.com
News No. 172/2008, November 28, 2008
At least ten Jummas were injured in a settler attack in Mahalchari under Khagrachari district yesterday, 27 November.
Sources from Khagrachari said the attack took place at around 3:30 pm near Mahalchari Police station when the Jummas were on their way to participate in a funeral in the village of Tholipara. The settlers were led by Jasim Uddin from Chongrachari cluster village and were armed with stick and dao (a kind of knife).
Four of the injured were admitted to Khagrachari hospital. Their condition has been stated to be critical.
The incident is a sequel to a series of other incidents. On 24 November, settlers led by Jasim Uddin, a fish trader, caught two UPDF supporters – Tissu Chakma (18) of village Bodanala and Tikon Tripura (18) from Sinkukchari -- and handed them over to the army. This created resentment among the Jumma villagers, who decided not to allow them to fish in their area.
Yesterday, at around 1pm when a group of settler fishermen went there to catch fish the Jumma villagers told them that they would not allow them to fish until the arrested UPDF supporters were set free. A heated altercation took place between the two sides, leading to a minor scuffle.
After coming back, the settlers incited their fellow brothers and attacked the Jummas near the police station without slightest provocation. These Jummas were not in any way involved in the previous incidents.
The Jummas tried to resist the attack but with little success. The police intervened only after the attack was over. Army personnel were also deployed later on.
At least ten Jummas were reported to have been injured in the premeditated attack. Four of them were admitted to Khagrachari hospital. They have been identified as Ulhapru Marma(42) son of Ushapru Marma of village Mahamunipara, Chinginala, Mahalchari; Kamol Marma (25) son of Ushapru Marma of Village Mahamunipara, Chinginala, Mahalchari; Mrs. Shuimrasang Marma(60) wife of Mr. Lailapru Marma of Village Khaiyongsa para; and Kangja aung Marma(34) son of Mr. Chailapru Marma of Village Khaiyangsa para. Mr. Kangja aung Marma is an employee (Bloc Supervisor) of Agriculture institute.
A few settlers also reportedly sustained minor injuries, but their identity was not revealed fearing criminal actions. None of the attackers has so far been arrested.
Friday, November 28, 2008
UPDF office keeper arrested in Kawkhali
chtnews.com
News No. 171/2008, November 26, 2008
An office keeper of the United Peoples Democratic Front (UPDF) has been arrested in Kawkhali under Rangamati district.
Sachib Chakma, central committee member of the UPDF, told chtnews.com that at around 8:30am a group of army personnel from Talukderpara camp came to the UPDF office in a pick-up van and took away Onyon Talukder (28) s/o Gobinda Talukder.
Talukder is responsible for maintaining the office which was reopened on 17 November.
The soldiers took him to the camp and subjected him to torture and intense interrogation. Later on, he was taken to Panchari village where the army made a few more arrests of innocent Jumma people, another source said without giving further details.
News No. 171/2008, November 26, 2008
An office keeper of the United Peoples Democratic Front (UPDF) has been arrested in Kawkhali under Rangamati district.
Sachib Chakma, central committee member of the UPDF, told chtnews.com that at around 8:30am a group of army personnel from Talukderpara camp came to the UPDF office in a pick-up van and took away Onyon Talukder (28) s/o Gobinda Talukder.
Talukder is responsible for maintaining the office which was reopened on 17 November.
The soldiers took him to the camp and subjected him to torture and intense interrogation. Later on, he was taken to Panchari village where the army made a few more arrests of innocent Jumma people, another source said without giving further details.
Midnight raid into UPDF office in Kawkhali
chtnews.com
News No. 170/2008, November 19, 2008
Army personnel broke into the Kawkhali unit office of the United Peoples Democratic Front (UPDF) around midnight last night, sources in UPDF said.
The incident comes about 11 hours after they ordered the party to close down the office, which was reopened on 17 November, after the government had withdrawn a ban on political activities.
The soldiers have reportedly removed the office furniture. No further details are available.
Meanwhile, sources from Rangamati said a terrorist group had kept pressuring Lakshman Sen Chakma (60) to revoke a deal over the use of his house as an office by UPDF in Ghagra.
Yesterday, they called the village elders to their den and threatened them not to allow UPDF to carry out its activities in Ghagra.
"We are giving you the last warning – either you cancel the deal (over the UPDF office), or we will take actions against all of you", one of the villagers who attended the meeting quoted the terrorists as saying.
News No. 170/2008, November 19, 2008
Army personnel broke into the Kawkhali unit office of the United Peoples Democratic Front (UPDF) around midnight last night, sources in UPDF said.
The incident comes about 11 hours after they ordered the party to close down the office, which was reopened on 17 November, after the government had withdrawn a ban on political activities.
The soldiers have reportedly removed the office furniture. No further details are available.
Meanwhile, sources from Rangamati said a terrorist group had kept pressuring Lakshman Sen Chakma (60) to revoke a deal over the use of his house as an office by UPDF in Ghagra.
Yesterday, they called the village elders to their den and threatened them not to allow UPDF to carry out its activities in Ghagra.
"We are giving you the last warning – either you cancel the deal (over the UPDF office), or we will take actions against all of you", one of the villagers who attended the meeting quoted the terrorists as saying.
Sunday, November 9, 2008
Denial of Registration: UPDF sends legal notice to EC
THE United People's Democratic Front (UPDF) on Sunday, November 09, sent a legal notice to the Chief Election Commissioner, A T M Shamshul Haq, urging him to inform the party by 2pm today whether the EC would "cancel, withdraw or rescind" its decision of 2. 11. 2008 not to register the UPDF as a political party.
The notice has been sent on behalf of the UPDF President, Mr. Prasit Khisha, by Advocate Md. Shariful Haq from Hazlul Karim and Associates.
It said " the said decision dated 2.11.2008 of the Election Commission not to register the UPDF as a political party is ultra vires of the Political Parties Registration Rules, in particular Rule 7(5) which specifically provides that the Commission shall give any applicant party an opportunity of fifteen days to correct any errors in its application and to supply the necessary documents in support of such application."
It also contended that " the said decision dated 2.11.2008 of the Election Commission is without lawful authority and of no legal effect inasmuch as it is wholly arbitrary and in violation of the principles of natural justice."
The press release was signed by Aongay Marama, Publication and Public Relations Department of the UPDF.
chtnews.com
News No. 167/2008, November 9, 2008
The notice has been sent on behalf of the UPDF President, Mr. Prasit Khisha, by Advocate Md. Shariful Haq from Hazlul Karim and Associates.
It said " the said decision dated 2.11.2008 of the Election Commission not to register the UPDF as a political party is ultra vires of the Political Parties Registration Rules, in particular Rule 7(5) which specifically provides that the Commission shall give any applicant party an opportunity of fifteen days to correct any errors in its application and to supply the necessary documents in support of such application."
It also contended that " the said decision dated 2.11.2008 of the Election Commission is without lawful authority and of no legal effect inasmuch as it is wholly arbitrary and in violation of the principles of natural justice."
The press release was signed by Aongay Marama, Publication and Public Relations Department of the UPDF.
chtnews.com
News No. 167/2008, November 9, 2008
UPDF member arrested in Sajek
A member of the United People's Democratic Front (UPDF) was arrested in Sajek under Rangamati district on 7 November.
Sources said Motor Chakma, aged 33, s/o Budu Chakma (mother's name Erebu Chakma) of village Balukhali under Bongoltoli Union of Baghaichari Thana was arrested from the house of one of his relatives in the village of Egojyachari in Sajek.
A group of army personnel from Majolong camp raided the village at around 4:30pm and arrested him.
Mr. Chakma, an active member of the UPDF, is believed to have been there on a family business. He has not been handed over to the police till the writing of this report at 3pm today.
No further details are available.
chtnews.com
News No. 166/2008, November 9, 2008
Sources said Motor Chakma, aged 33, s/o Budu Chakma (mother's name Erebu Chakma) of village Balukhali under Bongoltoli Union of Baghaichari Thana was arrested from the house of one of his relatives in the village of Egojyachari in Sajek.
A group of army personnel from Majolong camp raided the village at around 4:30pm and arrested him.
Mr. Chakma, an active member of the UPDF, is believed to have been there on a family business. He has not been handed over to the police till the writing of this report at 3pm today.
No further details are available.
chtnews.com
News No. 166/2008, November 9, 2008
PCP Naniachar office standoff: army picks up 10 PCP and HWF members
In a latest development today, the army picked up five members of the Hill Students Council (PCP) including the president of its Naniachar branch, Bilash Chakma, and another five Hill Women's Federation members from their office at T & T area in Rangamati district.
However, they were released later after "interrogation". PCP and HWF sources in Naniachar told chtnews.com that a group of army personnel led by Adjutant Nazmul from Naniachar zone (1 EBR) came to the PCP and HWF office at around noon and took the PCP and HWF members to the zone headquarters.
At the zone, they were interrogated by captain Morshalin. In reply to his questions, the PCP Naniachar unit president told him that they had closed down the office after the declaration of the state of emergency last year.
"The army officer said they will not allow us to open the office without permission from the TNO (Thana Nirbahi Officer)." one of the PCP men present at the interrogation told chtnews.com.
Captain Morshalin also asked them to appear before the zone headquarters with identity cards and meet with the Commanding Officer (CO) tomorrow.
The other PCP members that were picked up included Bablu Chakma, Organising Secretary; Bignabinashon Chakma, Assistant General Secretary; Tapu Moni Chakma, member; Kalo Moni Chakma, member.
The HWF members taken to the zone headquarters along with them are Aruna Chakma, Kemie Chakma, Bipasha Chakma, Rupashi Chakma and Api Chakma.
PCP condemns
The Hill Student's Council President, Ricoh Chakma, and General Secretary, Aungya Marma, in a statement condemned what they called "the autocratic and undemocratic attitudes" of the army.
However, they were released later after "interrogation". PCP and HWF sources in Naniachar told chtnews.com that a group of army personnel led by Adjutant Nazmul from Naniachar zone (1 EBR) came to the PCP and HWF office at around noon and took the PCP and HWF members to the zone headquarters.
At the zone, they were interrogated by captain Morshalin. In reply to his questions, the PCP Naniachar unit president told him that they had closed down the office after the declaration of the state of emergency last year.
"The army officer said they will not allow us to open the office without permission from the TNO (Thana Nirbahi Officer)." one of the PCP men present at the interrogation told chtnews.com.
Captain Morshalin also asked them to appear before the zone headquarters with identity cards and meet with the Commanding Officer (CO) tomorrow.
The other PCP members that were picked up included Bablu Chakma, Organising Secretary; Bignabinashon Chakma, Assistant General Secretary; Tapu Moni Chakma, member; Kalo Moni Chakma, member.
The HWF members taken to the zone headquarters along with them are Aruna Chakma, Kemie Chakma, Bipasha Chakma, Rupashi Chakma and Api Chakma.
PCP condemns
The Hill Student's Council President, Ricoh Chakma, and General Secretary, Aungya Marma, in a statement condemned what they called "the autocratic and undemocratic attitudes" of the army.
UPDF terms EC 'biased' in party registration
The United People's Democratic Front on Friday accused the Election Commission of showing 'discriminatory and biased' attitude in the registration of political parties, says the New Age, an English national daily in Bangladesh.
Full excerpt of the New Age report is as follows:
UPDF terms EC 'biased' in
party registration
Staff Correspondent
The United People's Democratic Front on Friday accused the Election Commission of showing 'discriminatory and biased' attitude in the registration of political parties.
Condemning the commission's decision not to register the UPDF as a political party, the party's president Prasit Bikash Khisha, in a statement signed by Angya Marma, the office and public relation secretary of the party, termed 'unacceptable and illogical' the reasons the commission showed for not registering it.
'It is very unfortunate the commission refused to register democratic and progressive parties such as the United People's Democratic Front whereas it registered parties like Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami which acted against the country's independence in 1971, amid strong opposition,' the statement said.
Prasit Bikash asked the chief election commissioner to reconsider registering it as a political party.
chtnews.com
News No. 164/2008, November 8, 2008
Full excerpt of the New Age report is as follows:
UPDF terms EC 'biased' in
party registration
Staff Correspondent
The United People's Democratic Front on Friday accused the Election Commission of showing 'discriminatory and biased' attitude in the registration of political parties.
Condemning the commission's decision not to register the UPDF as a political party, the party's president Prasit Bikash Khisha, in a statement signed by Angya Marma, the office and public relation secretary of the party, termed 'unacceptable and illogical' the reasons the commission showed for not registering it.
'It is very unfortunate the commission refused to register democratic and progressive parties such as the United People's Democratic Front whereas it registered parties like Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami which acted against the country's independence in 1971, amid strong opposition,' the statement said.
Prasit Bikash asked the chief election commissioner to reconsider registering it as a political party.
chtnews.com
News No. 164/2008, November 8, 2008
Army-police cordon off UPDF office in Naniachar
A joint force of army and police personnel cordoned off the office of the Naniachar branch of the United People's Democratic Front (UPDF) yesterday, 7 November, a day after it was opened for the first time in nearly two years.
Like all other political parties of the country, the UPDF also closed down its offices after the promulgation of the state of emergency on 11 January last year suspending all kinds of political activities.
After the announcement of polls schedule on 2 November, the caretaker government relaxed the emergency rules, allowing the parties the freedom to conduct election related activities. A few months earlier, the government had withdrawn a ban on indoor politics.
In the morning of 6 November, the UPDF members and supporters opened their office in Naniachar Thana under Rangamati district. At 12 noon, two security intelligence personnel visited the office, but they did not speak to any one. "They stayed a few minutes at the office and then left" said a UPDF member from Rangamati.
The following day, i.e., 7 November, around 7am a joint force of army and police personnel came to the office in three pick-up vans and cordoned it off until 5pm.
The soldiers asked the people, present at the nearby tea shops, who had opened the office the day before.
The soldiers also told them that they had information that there would be a meeting at the office.
Sachib Chakma, a central committee member of the UPDF, confirmed the incident and said "the way the army and police cordoned off our office is a clear violation of our democratic rights."
"This is a tactic of intimidation and coercion, and they did it so that we are not able to participate in the polls freely and openly." he added.
chtnews.com
News No. 163/2008, November 8, 2008
Like all other political parties of the country, the UPDF also closed down its offices after the promulgation of the state of emergency on 11 January last year suspending all kinds of political activities.
After the announcement of polls schedule on 2 November, the caretaker government relaxed the emergency rules, allowing the parties the freedom to conduct election related activities. A few months earlier, the government had withdrawn a ban on indoor politics.
In the morning of 6 November, the UPDF members and supporters opened their office in Naniachar Thana under Rangamati district. At 12 noon, two security intelligence personnel visited the office, but they did not speak to any one. "They stayed a few minutes at the office and then left" said a UPDF member from Rangamati.
The following day, i.e., 7 November, around 7am a joint force of army and police personnel came to the office in three pick-up vans and cordoned it off until 5pm.
The soldiers asked the people, present at the nearby tea shops, who had opened the office the day before.
The soldiers also told them that they had information that there would be a meeting at the office.
Sachib Chakma, a central committee member of the UPDF, confirmed the incident and said "the way the army and police cordoned off our office is a clear violation of our democratic rights."
"This is a tactic of intimidation and coercion, and they did it so that we are not able to participate in the polls freely and openly." he added.
chtnews.com
News No. 163/2008, November 8, 2008
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Army camp grabs 20 acres, evicts 3 families in Harinathpara
Three Jumma families have been displaced in Harinathpara under Golabari Union of Khagrachari district after an army camp was built there in April 2007.
The camp was relocated from Jadurampara in Kamalchari to Jonglitila situated in the middle of two villages Harinathpara and Guamahat. The army ousted three Jumma families who had been living there for many years and forcibly occupied about 20 acres of land belonging to six Jummas, including those evicted.
The soldiers also destroyed their orchards and fruit threes, and cut down bamboos and other valuable trees like teak and Gamar.
The displaced have been identified as Karunamoy Chakma, aged 55, s/o Nagor Chakma, Shantimoy Chakma, aged 35, s/o Chiringya Chakma and Charu Bikash Chakma, aged 35, s/o Shobhadhan Chakma.
Karunamoy Chakma told chtnews.com that after returning from refugee camp in Tripura, India in 1997, his family had settled there with permission from the local headman, Aungkyoching Chowdhury. He had grown different kinds of fruit trees such as jackfruit, mango, litchi, orange and plum, and planted bamboo, teak and Gamar tree.
He said until he was evicted in 2007, his family had been living there without any trouble and hindrance. "I had 5 acres of land there. Now the army is using it as a helipad." he said.
Now he has built a house on a piece of land belonging to Satish Chandra Chakma in the same village.
He said "I appealed to the CO. He said 'since you are returnee refugee we will give you money' (as compensation). I don't know the CO's name. He said the land belonged to the government. I went to him couple of times. At one stage, he called me names and said 'you bustard! You will smile the other side of your face, you know, if I have you lathi-charged (caned).' Finally, I gave up on it, and asked for seven days for the house to be dismantled and shifted. He gave me five days. Now I have become completely landless, not even owning an inch of land. I have got three sons and three daughters."
Like him, Charu Bikash Chakma was also forcibly ousted from his land. His family has now moved to Akkoychara Adam, about one and a half miles from Harinathpara village.
Those interviewed said the land on which the main camp-house has been built belongs to Charu Bikash Chakma and his father. They had two houses there, but they were destroyed.
Shantimoy Chakma alleged that the army has occupied 5 acres of third class hilly land belonging to him. He had been in the possession of the land for the last 35 years.
In an interview with the chtnews.com on 10 September 2008, Mr. Chakma said "I grew teak, Gamar and banana plantation there. About one and a half months ago, an army officer from the newly built Jonglitila camp called me and said that all my land was now under the control of the army camp. He virtually told me that his camp belonged all the land that he 'surveyed in all directions'. Ten to 12 days ago, the army got the settlers to clear the area. I had some 2nd class land within these 5 acres, and I used to grow vegetables there; but I am not being allowed to do that in this season."
Satish Chandra Chakma, aged 55, s/o Nishi Kumar Chakma had two acres of third class hilly land and 15 decimal of second class land. He and his family had been living there for 50 years. Apart from bamboo, they had also grown teak, Gamar, coconut, jackfruit, orange and lemon trees. Now the whole land has been occupied by the army.
In an interview he said "I appealed to the Chairman (UP) and the Headman, but noting came out. The army cut down the trees, and then trucks load of wood logs were supplied to the Zone, but we had to watch it helplessly. When we tried to protest, they threatened us."
His brother Tarun Kanti Chakma's (36) 3 acres of land has also been occupied. "The army cut down about 100 banana trees and 50 pieces of Bajjey bamboo. I had over 100 teak and Gamar trees, which were 12 to 14 years old. Now they don't allow me to sell them away. Everything has gone." Mr. Chakma alleged.
Asked if he lodged any protest or sought redress, he said "From whom shall I seek justice? The army said 'you can go anywhere, even to our higher authority, to lodge a complaint, but we need this area.'"
A few days ago, his wife was taking a banana bunch from their orchard. But when the soldiers objected, she, out of anger and grief, cut it to pieces in front of the army men and walked away.
The army also grabbed about 2 acres of land belonging to Nayan Chakma, 35, s/o Joy Dharat Chakma. He had grown about 500 pieces of teak trees. He said "the army cut down the teak trees and built their camp with these trees. Some of logs from these trees are still kept in the camp. My land is situated to the west of the main camp."
Asked if he lodged a protest, Nayana said "What could we have done! They just came and cut down the trees in a swift manner. We asked for compensation but they refused to pay, and said all our lands would be put under the control of the camp. We were forced to break down our houses. Now I built my house anew near the old one. They (army) are kept silent about it, but I don't know how long we would be allowed to live here. A few days ago, Major Rabbi told us not to plant anything or to make fire in our own land."
chtnews.com
News No. 162/2008, October 28, 2008
The camp was relocated from Jadurampara in Kamalchari to Jonglitila situated in the middle of two villages Harinathpara and Guamahat. The army ousted three Jumma families who had been living there for many years and forcibly occupied about 20 acres of land belonging to six Jummas, including those evicted.
The soldiers also destroyed their orchards and fruit threes, and cut down bamboos and other valuable trees like teak and Gamar.
The displaced have been identified as Karunamoy Chakma, aged 55, s/o Nagor Chakma, Shantimoy Chakma, aged 35, s/o Chiringya Chakma and Charu Bikash Chakma, aged 35, s/o Shobhadhan Chakma.
Karunamoy Chakma told chtnews.com that after returning from refugee camp in Tripura, India in 1997, his family had settled there with permission from the local headman, Aungkyoching Chowdhury. He had grown different kinds of fruit trees such as jackfruit, mango, litchi, orange and plum, and planted bamboo, teak and Gamar tree.
He said until he was evicted in 2007, his family had been living there without any trouble and hindrance. "I had 5 acres of land there. Now the army is using it as a helipad." he said.
Now he has built a house on a piece of land belonging to Satish Chandra Chakma in the same village.
He said "I appealed to the CO. He said 'since you are returnee refugee we will give you money' (as compensation). I don't know the CO's name. He said the land belonged to the government. I went to him couple of times. At one stage, he called me names and said 'you bustard! You will smile the other side of your face, you know, if I have you lathi-charged (caned).' Finally, I gave up on it, and asked for seven days for the house to be dismantled and shifted. He gave me five days. Now I have become completely landless, not even owning an inch of land. I have got three sons and three daughters."
Like him, Charu Bikash Chakma was also forcibly ousted from his land. His family has now moved to Akkoychara Adam, about one and a half miles from Harinathpara village.
Those interviewed said the land on which the main camp-house has been built belongs to Charu Bikash Chakma and his father. They had two houses there, but they were destroyed.
Shantimoy Chakma alleged that the army has occupied 5 acres of third class hilly land belonging to him. He had been in the possession of the land for the last 35 years.
In an interview with the chtnews.com on 10 September 2008, Mr. Chakma said "I grew teak, Gamar and banana plantation there. About one and a half months ago, an army officer from the newly built Jonglitila camp called me and said that all my land was now under the control of the army camp. He virtually told me that his camp belonged all the land that he 'surveyed in all directions'. Ten to 12 days ago, the army got the settlers to clear the area. I had some 2nd class land within these 5 acres, and I used to grow vegetables there; but I am not being allowed to do that in this season."
Satish Chandra Chakma, aged 55, s/o Nishi Kumar Chakma had two acres of third class hilly land and 15 decimal of second class land. He and his family had been living there for 50 years. Apart from bamboo, they had also grown teak, Gamar, coconut, jackfruit, orange and lemon trees. Now the whole land has been occupied by the army.
In an interview he said "I appealed to the Chairman (UP) and the Headman, but noting came out. The army cut down the trees, and then trucks load of wood logs were supplied to the Zone, but we had to watch it helplessly. When we tried to protest, they threatened us."
His brother Tarun Kanti Chakma's (36) 3 acres of land has also been occupied. "The army cut down about 100 banana trees and 50 pieces of Bajjey bamboo. I had over 100 teak and Gamar trees, which were 12 to 14 years old. Now they don't allow me to sell them away. Everything has gone." Mr. Chakma alleged.
Asked if he lodged any protest or sought redress, he said "From whom shall I seek justice? The army said 'you can go anywhere, even to our higher authority, to lodge a complaint, but we need this area.'"
A few days ago, his wife was taking a banana bunch from their orchard. But when the soldiers objected, she, out of anger and grief, cut it to pieces in front of the army men and walked away.
The army also grabbed about 2 acres of land belonging to Nayan Chakma, 35, s/o Joy Dharat Chakma. He had grown about 500 pieces of teak trees. He said "the army cut down the teak trees and built their camp with these trees. Some of logs from these trees are still kept in the camp. My land is situated to the west of the main camp."
Asked if he lodged a protest, Nayana said "What could we have done! They just came and cut down the trees in a swift manner. We asked for compensation but they refused to pay, and said all our lands would be put under the control of the camp. We were forced to break down our houses. Now I built my house anew near the old one. They (army) are kept silent about it, but I don't know how long we would be allowed to live here. A few days ago, Major Rabbi told us not to plant anything or to make fire in our own land."
chtnews.com
News No. 162/2008, October 28, 2008
Monday, October 27, 2008
Registration of CHT regional parties with EC uncertain
THE hope for the two regional political parties of the Chittagong Hill Tracts to participate in the upcoming elections following the Election Commission's registration process has come to an end, writes Fazle Elahi in the Suprabhat Bangladesh, a Bengali daily published from Chittagong.
In the news article published today, 27 October, Mr. Elahi attributed this fate of the CHT regional parties to the absence of provision for registration of any regional political party in the EC-announced registration process.
"Yet, the United Peoples Democratic Front (UPDF) and Parbattya Chattagram Jana Samhati Samiti (JSS) have applied for registration with the EC," he said and added that the Commission has yet to make any comments about their application.
"The complication with regard to registration has led to resentment among the leaders and workers of these two parties." he said.
The report said Ujjal Smriti Chakma, a central committee member of the UPDF, had admitted that his party has applied for registration and quoted him as saying "we have applied after fulfilling all the necessary conditions, but if the EC refuses to register us, then that would be a grave mistake on its part."
"Mr. Chakma said the EC has not made any specific provision for the registration of the regional parties, and added that the EC is making a mistake similar to the one made by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman." Mr. Elahi's report said.
"He went on to warn the EC, saying the EC must bear the responsibility if any untoward consequences result in the future because of their mistakes. This is a deep conspiracy to keep the Jumma people away from democratic process." the report further said.
The report said the CHT people are worried about the fallout of a possible denial of the EC to register the two powerful regional political parties -- UPDF and JSS. "This has become a subject of discussion everywhere in CHT." it added.
The reporter said he had contacted couple of JSS leaders for comments but they declined, saying they had instruction not to say anything about it.
The report also said that the so-called Sama Adhikar Andolon, a platform of a section of the Bengali settlers in CHT, has not applied for registration because they do not consider their organisation to be a political one.
chtnews.com
News No. 161/2008, October 27, 2008
In the news article published today, 27 October, Mr. Elahi attributed this fate of the CHT regional parties to the absence of provision for registration of any regional political party in the EC-announced registration process.
"Yet, the United Peoples Democratic Front (UPDF) and Parbattya Chattagram Jana Samhati Samiti (JSS) have applied for registration with the EC," he said and added that the Commission has yet to make any comments about their application.
"The complication with regard to registration has led to resentment among the leaders and workers of these two parties." he said.
The report said Ujjal Smriti Chakma, a central committee member of the UPDF, had admitted that his party has applied for registration and quoted him as saying "we have applied after fulfilling all the necessary conditions, but if the EC refuses to register us, then that would be a grave mistake on its part."
"Mr. Chakma said the EC has not made any specific provision for the registration of the regional parties, and added that the EC is making a mistake similar to the one made by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman." Mr. Elahi's report said.
"He went on to warn the EC, saying the EC must bear the responsibility if any untoward consequences result in the future because of their mistakes. This is a deep conspiracy to keep the Jumma people away from democratic process." the report further said.
The report said the CHT people are worried about the fallout of a possible denial of the EC to register the two powerful regional political parties -- UPDF and JSS. "This has become a subject of discussion everywhere in CHT." it added.
The reporter said he had contacted couple of JSS leaders for comments but they declined, saying they had instruction not to say anything about it.
The report also said that the so-called Sama Adhikar Andolon, a platform of a section of the Bengali settlers in CHT, has not applied for registration because they do not consider their organisation to be a political one.
chtnews.com
News No. 161/2008, October 27, 2008
Sunday, October 26, 2008
One kidnapped in Subholong
ONE person has been kidnapped by armed terrorists in Subholong Union of Barkal Thana in Rangamati district.
Joyonto Sen Chakma, aged 55, also kwon as Bhorot Boidyo s/o Kalachand Chakma was kidnapped from a place called Narkel Bagan at around 4 pm yesterday, 24 October, when he was returning from Subholong bazaar. He is from South Ukchari village.
Quoting eyewitnesses, a human rights activist in Rangamati town told chtnews.com on condition that his name be not mentioned in this report for security concerns that the terrorists had asked Joyonto Sen his name, and when he had told them his name, they took him away at gun point.
"I have been told that the armed terrorists led him away towards Billochara" he further said and added that they are patronized by a powerful member of the Regional Council in Rangamati.
The victim is a traditional village healer, locally known as Boidyo. The reason for his kidnapping could not be known.
chtnews.com
News No. 160/2008, October 25, 2008
Joyonto Sen Chakma, aged 55, also kwon as Bhorot Boidyo s/o Kalachand Chakma was kidnapped from a place called Narkel Bagan at around 4 pm yesterday, 24 October, when he was returning from Subholong bazaar. He is from South Ukchari village.
Quoting eyewitnesses, a human rights activist in Rangamati town told chtnews.com on condition that his name be not mentioned in this report for security concerns that the terrorists had asked Joyonto Sen his name, and when he had told them his name, they took him away at gun point.
"I have been told that the armed terrorists led him away towards Billochara" he further said and added that they are patronized by a powerful member of the Regional Council in Rangamati.
The victim is a traditional village healer, locally known as Boidyo. The reason for his kidnapping could not be known.
chtnews.com
News No. 160/2008, October 25, 2008
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Mong Raja" Paihalaprue Chowdhury dies in road crash
Marma Circle Chief -- locally known as the "Mong Raja" -- Paihalaprue Chowdhury was killed in a road accident at Ramgarh upazila of the hilly district Khagrachhari this morning, our Khagrachhari correspondent reports. He was 52.
Another 28-year-old woman, named Maleka Begum, of the district was also killed while several others sustained injuries in the accident.
The accident took place at about 7:00am when the driver of a Saudia Paribahan, carrying the Mong circle chief from the capital to Khagrachhari, lost control over the steering and toppled down on a nearly 100 feet roadside ditch, killing the "Raja" and the woman on the spot, our correspondent reports.
The injured were rushed to Ramgarh Upazila Health Complex.
Another 28-year-old woman, named Maleka Begum, of the district was also killed while several others sustained injuries in the accident.
The accident took place at about 7:00am when the driver of a Saudia Paribahan, carrying the Mong circle chief from the capital to Khagrachhari, lost control over the steering and toppled down on a nearly 100 feet roadside ditch, killing the "Raja" and the woman on the spot, our correspondent reports.
The injured were rushed to Ramgarh Upazila Health Complex.
Friday, October 17, 2008
Army 2-IC accused of ordering settlers to grab Jumma's land
Villagers of Gangaram Doar in Sajek alleged that the second-in-command of Baghaihat army zone has ordered the illegal settlers to grab 10 acres of land belonging to four Jummas.
Speaking to the chtnews.com Mr Hridoy Ranjan Chakma said on 14 October, the 2-IC went to Gongaram Doar village and announced that 40 settler families would be settled there.
"Turning to the Bengali settlers who accompanied him, the army commander said 'from now on you will live here", Mr Chakma alleged.
"Of the 10 acres, 2 acres belong to me, 1 acre to Ms Arati Chakma, 2 acres to Lalu Chakma and one and a half acres to Buddha Dhan Chakma." he further said. "The rest belong to other Jumma villagers."
Hridoy Ranjan Chakma came to Khagrachari town on 15 October to seek advice from the UPDF leaders about the impending forcible encroachment of their lands.
Mr Chakma was one of the four Jummas whose houses came under attack on 9 August for speaking to the Chittagong Hill Tracts Commission. The settlers beat him severely during the attack.
On 28 August, he was present at a press conference in Dhaka in which he and other victims demanded immediate withdrawal of the settlers from Sajek.
chtnews.com
News No. 159/2008, October 17, 2008
Speaking to the chtnews.com Mr Hridoy Ranjan Chakma said on 14 October, the 2-IC went to Gongaram Doar village and announced that 40 settler families would be settled there.
"Turning to the Bengali settlers who accompanied him, the army commander said 'from now on you will live here", Mr Chakma alleged.
"Of the 10 acres, 2 acres belong to me, 1 acre to Ms Arati Chakma, 2 acres to Lalu Chakma and one and a half acres to Buddha Dhan Chakma." he further said. "The rest belong to other Jumma villagers."
Hridoy Ranjan Chakma came to Khagrachari town on 15 October to seek advice from the UPDF leaders about the impending forcible encroachment of their lands.
Mr Chakma was one of the four Jummas whose houses came under attack on 9 August for speaking to the Chittagong Hill Tracts Commission. The settlers beat him severely during the attack.
On 28 August, he was present at a press conference in Dhaka in which he and other victims demanded immediate withdrawal of the settlers from Sajek.
chtnews.com
News No. 159/2008, October 17, 2008
UPDF urges government to reinstate Buddha statues in Bhujulichuk
THE United People's Democratic Front (UPDF) has urged the government to reinstate the Buddha statues removed from Bhujulichuk Buddhist meditation centre in Lakshmichari of Khagrachari district.
In a letter addressed to the Deputy Commissioner of Khagrachari district on 7 October, UPDF's District Organiser Apu Chakma wrote: "On 23 September 2008, a group of 20 - 22 army personnel led by Captain Islam, commander of Shuknachari Indra Singh Para camp, went to Bhujulichuk Meditation Centre situated on the hill top of Bhujulichuk, stayed there overnight and then took away four Buddha statues from the said meditation centre the next day."
The letter also narrated the previous army assaults on the meditation centre and harassment of the Buddhist monks there.
Terming Bangladesh as a multi-ethnic, multi-lingual and multi-cultural country, UPDF leader Mr. Apu Chakma said "each and every government (of Bangladesh) has spoken of the rights of the citizens to practice their own religion, and the constitution of the country also guarantees this right. But yet, it is beyond our comprehension as to why and under which authority of law a few army personnel continue to attack religious institutions and encroach upon the religious rights of the citizens."
The letter said repeated attacks on religious institutions like Bhujulichuk Meditation Centre and harassment of the meditating monks has caused resentment among the Buddhist community in the Chittagong Hill Tracts.
"We think you should play more energetic role to make sure that each and every religious community in your district are able to practice its own religion without any hindrance" the letter told the DC.
It also urged the Deputy Commissioner to investigate the military interventions in Bhujulichuk Meditation Centre and take measures to ensure congenial atmosphere for practicing meditation there, to punish those responsible for the attacks on BMC and to stop religious persecution in the Chittagong Hill Tracts.
chtnews.com
News No. 158/2008, October 17, 2008
In a letter addressed to the Deputy Commissioner of Khagrachari district on 7 October, UPDF's District Organiser Apu Chakma wrote: "On 23 September 2008, a group of 20 - 22 army personnel led by Captain Islam, commander of Shuknachari Indra Singh Para camp, went to Bhujulichuk Meditation Centre situated on the hill top of Bhujulichuk, stayed there overnight and then took away four Buddha statues from the said meditation centre the next day."
The letter also narrated the previous army assaults on the meditation centre and harassment of the Buddhist monks there.
Terming Bangladesh as a multi-ethnic, multi-lingual and multi-cultural country, UPDF leader Mr. Apu Chakma said "each and every government (of Bangladesh) has spoken of the rights of the citizens to practice their own religion, and the constitution of the country also guarantees this right. But yet, it is beyond our comprehension as to why and under which authority of law a few army personnel continue to attack religious institutions and encroach upon the religious rights of the citizens."
The letter said repeated attacks on religious institutions like Bhujulichuk Meditation Centre and harassment of the meditating monks has caused resentment among the Buddhist community in the Chittagong Hill Tracts.
"We think you should play more energetic role to make sure that each and every religious community in your district are able to practice its own religion without any hindrance" the letter told the DC.
It also urged the Deputy Commissioner to investigate the military interventions in Bhujulichuk Meditation Centre and take measures to ensure congenial atmosphere for practicing meditation there, to punish those responsible for the attacks on BMC and to stop religious persecution in the Chittagong Hill Tracts.
chtnews.com
News No. 158/2008, October 17, 2008
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Moung fails to get back his BD taka 5,000
Ex-combatant Mr. Moung Marma came to Rangamati yesterday with a hope of meeting Mr. Jyotirinra Bodhipriya Larma (Santu Larma). Mr. Moung now lives at Manikchari of Khagarachari Hill District with his family. This time he came to meet Mr. Larma to get back his BD Taka 5,000 to negotiate his serious family crisis and know about the latest status of the UNDP-CHTDF programme to rehabilitate the ex-combatants. Moung has been seriously frustrated for failing to meet Mr. Larma. He could neither meet Mr. Larma and managed to draw the money lying with him nor he had money for food and return journey. As a result he went to meet Mr. Rupayan Dewan and Mr. Chandra Sekhar Chakma, two JSS seniors for help. They, however, have supported Moung with some money for return journey and food.
Moung bought a share from his 50,000 BD Taka he got from the Governmnet to negotiaite his immediate needs for running an institutionalised business by the ex-combatants. This is noteworthy that each ex-combatant received BD Taka 50,000 from the Government soon after their coming to over ground for meeting up their immediate needs. And the JSS immediately raised a business fund from all of them with shares of BD Taka 5,000 each. Moung actually came to Mr. Larma for getting back the share-money which has been lying with Mr. Larma for the last 11 years.
By CHT Ex-Combatants
Moung bought a share from his 50,000 BD Taka he got from the Governmnet to negotiaite his immediate needs for running an institutionalised business by the ex-combatants. This is noteworthy that each ex-combatant received BD Taka 50,000 from the Government soon after their coming to over ground for meeting up their immediate needs. And the JSS immediately raised a business fund from all of them with shares of BD Taka 5,000 each. Moung actually came to Mr. Larma for getting back the share-money which has been lying with Mr. Larma for the last 11 years.
By CHT Ex-Combatants
Pele is visited by JSS senior members
Mr. Tatindra Lal Chakma Pele who was released from Khagarachari jail after 16 months on bail has been visited by JSS senior leaders at his home at Khagarachari district headquarters. Mr. Chandra Sekhar Chakma, Central Committee Member who served three consecutive terms for 11 years for the post of General Secretary; Advocate Saktiman Chakma, Central Committee Member and Secretary for Law related Affairs of the immediate past committee; Mr. Rupayan Dewan, Central Committee Member and the Vice-President of the immediate past committee and Mr. Angshuman Chakma, Head, Political Department, Office of the President paid a two-day courtesy visit to Mr. Tatindra Lal Chakma on the 9th instant. They left Rangamti in the morning of the 9th and returned Rangamati in the evening of the next day. Chandra Sekhar Chakma and Rupayan Dewan spent the night at Parjatan motel. They have found Mr. Pele morally strong for his political commitment but have felt the immediate need of medical check-up and treatment.
By CHT Ex-Combatants
By CHT Ex-Combatants
Pele is visited by JSS senior members
Mr. Tatindra Lal Chakma Pele who was released from Khagarachari jail after 16 months on bail has been visited by JSS senior leaders at his home at Khagarachari district headquarters. Mr. Chandra Sekhar Chakma, Central Committee Member who served three consecutive terms for 11 years for the post of General Secretary; Advocate Saktiman Chakma, Central Committee Member and Secretary for Law related Affairs of the immediate past committee; Mr. Rupayan Dewan, Central Committee Member and the Vice-President of the immediate past committee and Mr. Angshuman Chakma, Head, Political Department, Office of the President paid a two-day courtesy visit to Mr. Tatindra Lal Chakma on the 9th instant. They left Rangamti in the morning of the 9th and returned Rangamati in the evening of the next day. Chandra Sekhar Chakma and Rupayan Dewan spent the night at Parjatan motel. They have found Mr. Pele morally strong for his political commitment but have felt the immediate need of medical check-up and treatment.
By CHT Ex-Combatants
By CHT Ex-Combatants
UPDF demands release of Ranglai Murung
THE United People's Democratic Front (UPDF) and its front organisations in a letter addressed to the Chief Adviser on 13 October expressed concern about the deteriorating health condition of Ranglai Murung and demanded his immediate release.
Mr. Ranglai Murung, headman of Reingkhyong Mouza and chairman of Sualok Union in Bandarban district, was arrested by joint forces of army and police personnel on 23 February last year from his Ujanipara residence. He was charged with possessing illegal arms and was sentenced to 17 years in jail by a speedy trail tribunal.
The letter was signed by UPDF's central committee member Sachib Chakma, Hill Women's Federation president Sonali Chakma, Democratic Youth Forum's publication secretary Alakesh Chakma and Hill Students Council president Ricoh Chakma.
They said "We are deeply concerned about the deteriorating health condition of Mr. Ranglai Murung, a member of Murung nationality in Bandarban district of Chittagong Hill Tracts, who is now being detained in Chittagong jail."
Terming the failure of the authorities concerned to provide Mr. Murung better treatment as discriminatory, they said "so far the government has arranged better treatment for many prisoners being detained on corruption charges. Not only that, it has released many of them on parole so that they can recieve medical treatment abroad. However, it is regrettable that in the case of Mr. Ranglai Murung, the government has completely failed to make such an arrangement as per advice of his attending doctors."
About his trial, the leaders said it has never been "fair and impartial" and added that there had been allegations that the army intimidated the witnesses so as to influence the proceeding of the trial.
"We think the arrest and trial of Ranglai Murung is politically motivated. Since long before his arrest, he had been campaigning for the protection of the rights his Murung nationality, and he was particularly vocal against military attempts to grab their traditional and community-owned lands in Bandarban." the letter further said.
The leaders also demanded that the false charges brought against him be withdrawn, an impartial inquiry be ordered to probe physical torture that he was meted out immediately after arrest and those responsible be brought to justice.
chtnews.com
News No. 157/2008, October 15, 2008
Mr. Ranglai Murung, headman of Reingkhyong Mouza and chairman of Sualok Union in Bandarban district, was arrested by joint forces of army and police personnel on 23 February last year from his Ujanipara residence. He was charged with possessing illegal arms and was sentenced to 17 years in jail by a speedy trail tribunal.
The letter was signed by UPDF's central committee member Sachib Chakma, Hill Women's Federation president Sonali Chakma, Democratic Youth Forum's publication secretary Alakesh Chakma and Hill Students Council president Ricoh Chakma.
They said "We are deeply concerned about the deteriorating health condition of Mr. Ranglai Murung, a member of Murung nationality in Bandarban district of Chittagong Hill Tracts, who is now being detained in Chittagong jail."
Terming the failure of the authorities concerned to provide Mr. Murung better treatment as discriminatory, they said "so far the government has arranged better treatment for many prisoners being detained on corruption charges. Not only that, it has released many of them on parole so that they can recieve medical treatment abroad. However, it is regrettable that in the case of Mr. Ranglai Murung, the government has completely failed to make such an arrangement as per advice of his attending doctors."
About his trial, the leaders said it has never been "fair and impartial" and added that there had been allegations that the army intimidated the witnesses so as to influence the proceeding of the trial.
"We think the arrest and trial of Ranglai Murung is politically motivated. Since long before his arrest, he had been campaigning for the protection of the rights his Murung nationality, and he was particularly vocal against military attempts to grab their traditional and community-owned lands in Bandarban." the letter further said.
The leaders also demanded that the false charges brought against him be withdrawn, an impartial inquiry be ordered to probe physical torture that he was meted out immediately after arrest and those responsible be brought to justice.
chtnews.com
News No. 157/2008, October 15, 2008
Sunday, October 5, 2008
So-called Sama Adhikar leader arrested
A leader of the so-called Sama Adhikar Andolan, a platform of a section of the Bengali settlers, has been arrested for setting fire to the newly built settler houses in Char Mile area under Baghaichari Upazila in Rangamati district.
One source said the houses were set on fire in the small hours yesterday, 4 October. About 15 houses were burnt to ashes. The motive of the culprits was to fan communal tension by putting the blame on the Jumma people and create a pretext to launch an attack on their villages a la 20 April Sajek attack.
But in the morning it became clear to all who actually set the fire, and Selim Uddin Bahari, president of Baghatichari Unit of the Sama Adhikar Andolan, was immediately arrested.
His arrest led to a brief fight between a section of the settlers and the BDR and police personnel, and a number of BDR and police personnel were reportedly injured when the settlers pelted brickbats at them.
Police arrested another four settlers from the scene, sources further said. The arrested were sent to the Baghaichari police station.
Selim Uddin Bahari was one of the masterminds behind the 20 April deadly settler attack in Sajek in which 77 Jumma houses were burnt down. The Jummas are still reeling from the said attack.
chtnews.com
News No. 156/2008, October 05, 2008
One source said the houses were set on fire in the small hours yesterday, 4 October. About 15 houses were burnt to ashes. The motive of the culprits was to fan communal tension by putting the blame on the Jumma people and create a pretext to launch an attack on their villages a la 20 April Sajek attack.
But in the morning it became clear to all who actually set the fire, and Selim Uddin Bahari, president of Baghatichari Unit of the Sama Adhikar Andolan, was immediately arrested.
His arrest led to a brief fight between a section of the settlers and the BDR and police personnel, and a number of BDR and police personnel were reportedly injured when the settlers pelted brickbats at them.
Police arrested another four settlers from the scene, sources further said. The arrested were sent to the Baghaichari police station.
Selim Uddin Bahari was one of the masterminds behind the 20 April deadly settler attack in Sajek in which 77 Jumma houses were burnt down. The Jummas are still reeling from the said attack.
chtnews.com
News No. 156/2008, October 05, 2008
Rally marking Children's Week in Khagrachari
Huang Boi-o-ba, a community library organisation, organised various activities including a rally to mark the National Children's Week today.
Led by Huang Boi-o-ba president Ms Daisy Chakma and General Secretary Jemin Chakma, the rally took off at 10 am from Swanirbhor bazaar and went up to Chengi Square. Around 100 children took part in the rally, carrying a banner and placards.
The rally was soon followed by a cultural function, which was held at Perachara UP Auditorium. The children sang songs and recited poems and rhymes.
A discussion is scheduled to be held in the afternoon. Ex-teacher and educationist Ananta Bihari Khisha, retired professor Modhu Mongol Chakma and ex-principal of Khagrachari Government College, Bodhisatwa Chakma will attend as the special guests.
As part of the programme to mark the Children's Week, the Huang Boi-o-ba earlier organised a Book Show from 29 September to 5 October. On 4 October, it also organised a painting competition for the children.
chtnews.com
News No. 155/2008, October 05, 2008
Led by Huang Boi-o-ba president Ms Daisy Chakma and General Secretary Jemin Chakma, the rally took off at 10 am from Swanirbhor bazaar and went up to Chengi Square. Around 100 children took part in the rally, carrying a banner and placards.
The rally was soon followed by a cultural function, which was held at Perachara UP Auditorium. The children sang songs and recited poems and rhymes.
A discussion is scheduled to be held in the afternoon. Ex-teacher and educationist Ananta Bihari Khisha, retired professor Modhu Mongol Chakma and ex-principal of Khagrachari Government College, Bodhisatwa Chakma will attend as the special guests.
As part of the programme to mark the Children's Week, the Huang Boi-o-ba earlier organised a Book Show from 29 September to 5 October. On 4 October, it also organised a painting competition for the children.
chtnews.com
News No. 155/2008, October 05, 2008
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