chtnews.com
News No. 66/2009, June 20, 2009
One UPDF supporter has been kidnapped by armed members of the Jana Samhati Samiti (Santu faction) in Barkal, Rangamati.
Mr. Modhu Mongol Chakma alias Markin, 42, s/o late Sudhon Moni Chakma was kidnapped from his home in the village of Korpotichara under Barkal Union No. 2 around 8pm on 18 June.
His whereabouts is still unknown. United People’s Democratic Front (UPDF) sources said he might have been taken to Halamba-Billochara, a small patch of area bordering Mizoram of India, where the remnant of JSS members holds up.
Korpotichara is a remote village in Barkal Upazila, accessible only by foot and is about 6 miles north-east of Subholong bazaar.
UPDF’s Rangamati district organiser, Shanti Dev Chakma condemned the incident and demanded his immediate release.
Saturday, August 15, 2009
Two UPDF supporters arrested in Kudukchari
chtnews.com
News No. 65/2009, June 20, 2009
Two supporters of the United People’s Democratic Front (UPDF) were arrested last night in Kudukchari, Rangamati.
The arrested have been identified as Motilal Chakma (22) s/o Bizu Kumar Chakma of Suridas Karbari Para village and Unuching Marma from Bandarban.
They were arrested by army personnel from Ghilachari camp from Choddo Mile area.
Unuching Marma was in Kudukchari to meet his friend, who is a member of the UPDF.
On the other hand, the army picked up Moti Lal Chakma from his own shop at Choddo Mile on Rangamati – Khagrachari road.
News No. 65/2009, June 20, 2009
Two supporters of the United People’s Democratic Front (UPDF) were arrested last night in Kudukchari, Rangamati.
The arrested have been identified as Motilal Chakma (22) s/o Bizu Kumar Chakma of Suridas Karbari Para village and Unuching Marma from Bandarban.
They were arrested by army personnel from Ghilachari camp from Choddo Mile area.
Unuching Marma was in Kudukchari to meet his friend, who is a member of the UPDF.
On the other hand, the army picked up Moti Lal Chakma from his own shop at Choddo Mile on Rangamati – Khagrachari road.
UPDF opens office in Subholong
chtnews.com
News No. 64/2009, June 20, 2009
The United People’ Democratic Front (UPDF) has opened an office in Subholong bazaar under Rangamati district.
The inauguration of the office was held yesterday, Friday, at 11am. Hundreds of UPDF members and supporters attended the ceremony.
Presided over by Milon Shankar Chakma, a Headman, the inauguration ceremony was addressed by UPDF’s Rangamati district organiser Shanti Dev Chakma, UPDF member Charan Singh Chakma, Hill Women’s Federation President Sonali Chakma and Democratic Youth Forum’s Organising Secretary Michael Chakma.
The ceremony was conducted by DYF leader Alakesh Chakma.
Thanking the people for their continued support for the party, the speakers said there is no force strong enough to thwart the advance of the UPDF in CHT.
“Without the support of the broad masses of the people it would not have been possible for the party to open this office here today.” UPDF leader Shanti Dev Chakma said.
Jumma people’s struggle for Full Autonomy will continue, he declared and sought a stronger bond between the party and the people.
“If the party and the people act like one single person, then they can do wonders”.
Milon Shankar Chakma in his speech thanked UPDF for opening the Subholong office and hoped the new party will be able to guide the people in the right direction.
He further said without a party the people have nothing. “Therefore, we need a good party, a strong and disciplined party, and we must support UPDF – the party of the new era -- and help it to grow stronger.” he said.
News No. 64/2009, June 20, 2009
The United People’ Democratic Front (UPDF) has opened an office in Subholong bazaar under Rangamati district.
The inauguration of the office was held yesterday, Friday, at 11am. Hundreds of UPDF members and supporters attended the ceremony.
Presided over by Milon Shankar Chakma, a Headman, the inauguration ceremony was addressed by UPDF’s Rangamati district organiser Shanti Dev Chakma, UPDF member Charan Singh Chakma, Hill Women’s Federation President Sonali Chakma and Democratic Youth Forum’s Organising Secretary Michael Chakma.
The ceremony was conducted by DYF leader Alakesh Chakma.
Thanking the people for their continued support for the party, the speakers said there is no force strong enough to thwart the advance of the UPDF in CHT.
“Without the support of the broad masses of the people it would not have been possible for the party to open this office here today.” UPDF leader Shanti Dev Chakma said.
Jumma people’s struggle for Full Autonomy will continue, he declared and sought a stronger bond between the party and the people.
“If the party and the people act like one single person, then they can do wonders”.
Milon Shankar Chakma in his speech thanked UPDF for opening the Subholong office and hoped the new party will be able to guide the people in the right direction.
He further said without a party the people have nothing. “Therefore, we need a good party, a strong and disciplined party, and we must support UPDF – the party of the new era -- and help it to grow stronger.” he said.
Terror victim demands justice
chtnews.com
News No. 63/2009, June 19, 2009
Mintu Chakma, Director of Bhumihin Samabay Samiti (Cooperative Society of the Landless) and a victim of 17-June terror attacks by JSS men, at a press conference today urged the government to take immediate steps to put an end to JSS-sponsored violence and arrest those responsible for the attack on his house in Rangamati.
Calling himself a staunch supporter of the United People’s Democratic Front (UPDF), Mr. Chakma, 42, alleged that a group of JSS members on 17 June attacked his flat of a house at Gorjonltoli and smashed the window panes.
“Immediately after the attack, I contacted the DC, SP and OC to inform them about the incident and asked for justice. But so far nothing has been done.” Mr. Chakma lamented.
He listed the violent attacks carried out by the JSS men in Rangamati town in the last few months, and demanded that they be brought to justice.
He said he has been feeling insecure since the attack on his house, and urged the government to restore peaceful environment in the town.
Mr. Chakma was flanked by his friends and colleagues at the press conference.
News No. 63/2009, June 19, 2009
Mintu Chakma, Director of Bhumihin Samabay Samiti (Cooperative Society of the Landless) and a victim of 17-June terror attacks by JSS men, at a press conference today urged the government to take immediate steps to put an end to JSS-sponsored violence and arrest those responsible for the attack on his house in Rangamati.
Calling himself a staunch supporter of the United People’s Democratic Front (UPDF), Mr. Chakma, 42, alleged that a group of JSS members on 17 June attacked his flat of a house at Gorjonltoli and smashed the window panes.
“Immediately after the attack, I contacted the DC, SP and OC to inform them about the incident and asked for justice. But so far nothing has been done.” Mr. Chakma lamented.
He listed the violent attacks carried out by the JSS men in Rangamati town in the last few months, and demanded that they be brought to justice.
He said he has been feeling insecure since the attack on his house, and urged the government to restore peaceful environment in the town.
Mr. Chakma was flanked by his friends and colleagues at the press conference.
Army threatens Daily Star correspondent
chtnews.com
News No. 62/2009, June 19, 2009
The army was reported to have threatened Jasim Majumder, Khagrachari district correspondent for The Daily Star, for publishing a report on a protest rally organised by Boroitali villagers against settler attempts to grab their lands.
The rally was held on Wednesday, 17 June, in Khagrachari and the report appeared in the Daily Star on Thursday -- yesterday.
Quoting Jasim Majumder, Hill Women’s Federation leader Rina Dewan told chtnews.com that he was called to the zone headquarters by an army Major who did not disclose his name, and was threatened not to send such reports because these reports are “injurious to the interest of the army”.
“The Major asked me why I, being myself a Bengali, write against the interest of the Bengali people.” Ms Dewan quoted Jasim as telling her.
“But I told the Major that I am writing the truths, that I have written (the report) after verifying the allegation of the Boroitali people to be true.” Jasim was quoted as saying.
“But I am not afraid of the army threats.”
News No. 62/2009, June 19, 2009
The army was reported to have threatened Jasim Majumder, Khagrachari district correspondent for The Daily Star, for publishing a report on a protest rally organised by Boroitali villagers against settler attempts to grab their lands.
The rally was held on Wednesday, 17 June, in Khagrachari and the report appeared in the Daily Star on Thursday -- yesterday.
Quoting Jasim Majumder, Hill Women’s Federation leader Rina Dewan told chtnews.com that he was called to the zone headquarters by an army Major who did not disclose his name, and was threatened not to send such reports because these reports are “injurious to the interest of the army”.
“The Major asked me why I, being myself a Bengali, write against the interest of the Bengali people.” Ms Dewan quoted Jasim as telling her.
“But I told the Major that I am writing the truths, that I have written (the report) after verifying the allegation of the Boroitali people to be true.” Jasim was quoted as saying.
“But I am not afraid of the army threats.”
BMSC forms human chain to protest Boroitali land grab attempts
chtnews.com
News No. 61/2009, June 19, 2009
The Bangladesh Marma Students’ Council (BMSC) yesterday formed a human chain to protest attempts by a group of settlers to grab 300 acres of land belonging to Jumma people in Boroitali in Ramgarh. (Please see photo attached)
The leaders of the organisation also sent a memorandum to the State Minister for Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs via Deputy Commissioner of Khagrachari.
At the human chain formed at Shapla Chattor in Khagrachari town, the Marma leaders expressed concern over the systematic way the Jumma people’s lands are being taken away by illegal settlers.
“We are observing with serious concern that the CHT situation is becoming unstable again. The settlers continue to build houses after grabbing lands of the innocent Jumma villagers. This has become a regular phenomenon.” said Upasing Marma, President of BMSC Khagrachari District Unit.
Mongshi Prue Marma, another BMSC leader, said the settlers had been constructing houses in Boroitali village under Hapcahri Union in Ramgarh after taking away Hill people’s lands.
Mr. Marma accused a certain state agency of instigating the settlers to go about grabbing other people’s lands.
Legal adviser of the BMSC, Upathoai Marma termed the settlers’ attempt to grab lands as violation of the constitution of Bangladesh and human rights law.
He condemned the use of the settlers as human shield and as a mean to destroy Jumma people’s age old tradition and culture.
Ming Prue Chai Marma of BMSC Chittagong Metropolitan Committee urged the authorities to stop instigating the settlers.
In the memo addressed to the state minister for CHT Affairs, the BMSC leaders made the following demands:
to take immediate steps to stop attempts by settlers to build houses on lands belonging to Jumma people in Boroitali;
to constitute a high level parliamentary committee to investigate the incidents taking place Boroitali area;
to settle land disputes through the CHT land commission with emphasis being laid on the traditional land use system of the Jumma people; and
to try all cases relating to human rights violations including illegal land grabbing, incidents of communal riots and rape of Jumma women in the CHT.
The memorandum was signed by the President and General Secretary of BMSC Khagrachari District unit.
Friday, August 14, 2009
JSS Reformist stage protest demo as Santu group attempts to disrupt
chtnews.com
News No. 60/2009, June 18, 2009
The Reformist faction of the Jana Samhati Samiti led by Rupayan Dewan, a member of the CHT Regional Council, held a protest rally at Paura Chattar in Rangamati town yesterday, as its rival faction led by Santu Larma made attempts to disrupt it.
The Reformists were protesting against attacks on its leaders and supporters by Larma-backed armed gangs.
The rally, attended by hundreds of its supporters, was addressed by ex-General Secretary of JSS Chandra Shekhor Chakma, Aungshuman Chakma, Sudhirgho Chakma and Ashin Chakma.
The speakers condemned the attack on their four supporters the previous day at Devashish Nogor by Satnu Larma-backed armed cadres, and demanded immediate arrest of the culprits.
Santu group’s terror tactics
Santu Larma made serious attempts to foil the Reformist’s rally yesterday. His men, with active support of the police and armed with stick and catapult, halted vehicles at Vedvedi and prevented people suspected of having sympathy with UPDF and Reformist JSS from entering the town.
Four innocent school boys from Kudukchari were injured in JSS attack in Vedvedi. They were going to Banarupa bazaar in the town.
Two of the injured – Monghol Dhan Chakma s/o Indra Bhushan Chakma of Kalabunnya village and Jibon Chakma s/o Gullo Chakma of Gado Chara village – were admitted to Rangamti Sadar Hospital with serious wounds.
However, according to hospital sources, the JSS men stormed the hospital and snatched them away by force and were believed to have been taken to the JSS office in Kalindipur.
The kidnapped boys are class ten students in Kudukchari High School.
Later in the day, Santu group members also attacked the houses of Reformist JSS member Advocate Shaktiman Chakma at T&T area and UPDF sympathizer Mintu Chakma at Kathaltoli.
They asked Mithu Chakma’s wife to tell her husband to surrender himself to Santu Larma within seven days and warned that in the event of failure they would kidnap her two children.
Members of Santu Group also exercised their muscle power in Premtoli, Trabel Adam and Banarupa, holding sticks and catapults, and searched for the Reformists.
Police support for the Santu group was palpable also at the venue of the rally where police protection was withdrawn well before the rally was to be ended.
This prompted the Reformists to cut short the list of the speakers and to end the rally abruptly.
Santu Larma supporters gathered together behind the police and were poised for attack
News No. 60/2009, June 18, 2009
The Reformist faction of the Jana Samhati Samiti led by Rupayan Dewan, a member of the CHT Regional Council, held a protest rally at Paura Chattar in Rangamati town yesterday, as its rival faction led by Santu Larma made attempts to disrupt it.
The Reformists were protesting against attacks on its leaders and supporters by Larma-backed armed gangs.
The rally, attended by hundreds of its supporters, was addressed by ex-General Secretary of JSS Chandra Shekhor Chakma, Aungshuman Chakma, Sudhirgho Chakma and Ashin Chakma.
The speakers condemned the attack on their four supporters the previous day at Devashish Nogor by Satnu Larma-backed armed cadres, and demanded immediate arrest of the culprits.
Santu group’s terror tactics
Santu Larma made serious attempts to foil the Reformist’s rally yesterday. His men, with active support of the police and armed with stick and catapult, halted vehicles at Vedvedi and prevented people suspected of having sympathy with UPDF and Reformist JSS from entering the town.
Four innocent school boys from Kudukchari were injured in JSS attack in Vedvedi. They were going to Banarupa bazaar in the town.
Two of the injured – Monghol Dhan Chakma s/o Indra Bhushan Chakma of Kalabunnya village and Jibon Chakma s/o Gullo Chakma of Gado Chara village – were admitted to Rangamti Sadar Hospital with serious wounds.
However, according to hospital sources, the JSS men stormed the hospital and snatched them away by force and were believed to have been taken to the JSS office in Kalindipur.
The kidnapped boys are class ten students in Kudukchari High School.
Later in the day, Santu group members also attacked the houses of Reformist JSS member Advocate Shaktiman Chakma at T&T area and UPDF sympathizer Mintu Chakma at Kathaltoli.
They asked Mithu Chakma’s wife to tell her husband to surrender himself to Santu Larma within seven days and warned that in the event of failure they would kidnap her two children.
Members of Santu Group also exercised their muscle power in Premtoli, Trabel Adam and Banarupa, holding sticks and catapults, and searched for the Reformists.
Police support for the Santu group was palpable also at the venue of the rally where police protection was withdrawn well before the rally was to be ended.
This prompted the Reformists to cut short the list of the speakers and to end the rally abruptly.
Santu Larma supporters gathered together behind the police and were poised for attack
Boroitali villagers stage demo against land grabbing
chtnews.com
News No. 59/2009, June 17, 2009
Jumma villagers have staged demonstrations in Khagrachari in protest at attempts by illegal settlers to grab land in Boroitali of Ramgarh Upazila.
They also submitted a memorandum to the Deputy Commissioner demanding that the government immediately stop settlers from occupying 300 acres of land belonging to the Jumma people.
Hundreds of people and villagers took part in the demonstration.
Before submitting the memo, the demonstrators took out a procession at 11:30am which paraded the city roads.
Thereafter, they held a brief rally in the town which was addressed by Niong Karbari, the Head of the village, and Mong Chai Aungyo Marma, another villager.
Mr. Karbari said “since 7 June, the settlers have been attempting to grab 300 acres of land in our village which we have been using for generations. On 14 June, the settlers began constructing houses there, and when we tried to prevent them, they attacked us.”
He urged the government to take immediate steps to stop land grabbing and ensure safety and security of his village people.
After the rally, Mong Chai Aungyo Marma submitted a memorandum to the DC on behalf of the villagers.
Democratic Youth Forum leader Remin Chakma and Hill Students’ Council leaders Batayon Chakma and Niko Chakma helped Mr. Marma submitting the memo.
7 including PCP General Secretary detained in Guimara
chtnews.com
News No. 58/2009, June 17, 2009
Seven persons including Hill Students’ Council (PCP) General Secretary Aongai Marma have been detained by army in Guimara, as Jummas from Ramgarh area travel to Khagrachari to attend a protest rally against the recent land grab attempts in Boroitali.
Sources said around 10am two jeeps carrying about 70 people to the Khagrachari protest rally were halted by intelligence personnel at Guimara.
They snatched away the keys of the jeeps but returned them when the people protested.
A few minutes later, army came and took all the participants to the camp. The army kept 7 of them and released the others.
Among the detained is Aongai Marma, General Secretary of the Hill Students’ Council. He was one of the organisers of the protest rally.
Others detained by the army include Apruchi Marma, a PCP member, Manikchari barnch; Labray Marma, 30, s/o Mong Shey Marma of village Sindukchari Mukh; Ruiyo Marma, 28, s/o Modhu Marma, Kukichara; Aroi Marma, 27, s/o Labray Chai Marma, Chaindya Toli; Mong Kro Marma, 23, s/o Boni Marma, Kukichara; and Mragyo Marma, 23, s/o Aungyo Chai Marma, Boroitali.
Hill Students’ Council is scheduled to hold a rally later in the day in Dhaka to protest the unlawful detention of its leaders and other Jummas.
Latest
As we are about to release the report at 1:10pm, sources from Khagrachari informed that the army have released Aongai Marma and others detained in Guimara Zone.
News No. 58/2009, June 17, 2009
Seven persons including Hill Students’ Council (PCP) General Secretary Aongai Marma have been detained by army in Guimara, as Jummas from Ramgarh area travel to Khagrachari to attend a protest rally against the recent land grab attempts in Boroitali.
Sources said around 10am two jeeps carrying about 70 people to the Khagrachari protest rally were halted by intelligence personnel at Guimara.
They snatched away the keys of the jeeps but returned them when the people protested.
A few minutes later, army came and took all the participants to the camp. The army kept 7 of them and released the others.
Among the detained is Aongai Marma, General Secretary of the Hill Students’ Council. He was one of the organisers of the protest rally.
Others detained by the army include Apruchi Marma, a PCP member, Manikchari barnch; Labray Marma, 30, s/o Mong Shey Marma of village Sindukchari Mukh; Ruiyo Marma, 28, s/o Modhu Marma, Kukichara; Aroi Marma, 27, s/o Labray Chai Marma, Chaindya Toli; Mong Kro Marma, 23, s/o Boni Marma, Kukichara; and Mragyo Marma, 23, s/o Aungyo Chai Marma, Boroitali.
Hill Students’ Council is scheduled to hold a rally later in the day in Dhaka to protest the unlawful detention of its leaders and other Jummas.
Latest
As we are about to release the report at 1:10pm, sources from Khagrachari informed that the army have released Aongai Marma and others detained in Guimara Zone.
Rival JSS factions clash in Rangamati
chtnews.com
News No. 57/2009, June 16, 2009
At least four persons have been injured in a clash between two rival factions of the Jana Samhati Samiti in Rangamati town.
Sources said the clash erupted around 5pm in Devashish Nogor area of the town when members of the Rupayan Dewan-led faction of the JSS, known as Sangskarbadi or Reformist, came under attack of its rival Santu Larma faction.
Both the factions chased and counter-chased each other before the police arrived.
All the injured belong to the Reformist faction and have been admitted to hospital.
Members of the Santu group seized two members of their rival faction and handed them over to the police, it is learnt.
One of them has been identified as Nanda Chakma of village Chongrachari, Dighinala. However, the identity of the other one could not be known.
Reformists allege that the attack came after the JSS (Santu) failed to get the police to act on their behalf.
“The Santu group tried to file a false kidnapping case against us.” said a Reformist member.
Today’s factional clash comes barely two days after an attempt on the life of Kollol Chakma, a UPDF-backed PCP activist, who joined the organisation in May after breaking ranks with the JSS.
JSS is also blamed for assassination attempts on its former General Secretary Chandra Shekhor Chakma and another influential leader Progoti Chakma in February and April.
News No. 57/2009, June 16, 2009
At least four persons have been injured in a clash between two rival factions of the Jana Samhati Samiti in Rangamati town.
Sources said the clash erupted around 5pm in Devashish Nogor area of the town when members of the Rupayan Dewan-led faction of the JSS, known as Sangskarbadi or Reformist, came under attack of its rival Santu Larma faction.
Both the factions chased and counter-chased each other before the police arrived.
All the injured belong to the Reformist faction and have been admitted to hospital.
Members of the Santu group seized two members of their rival faction and handed them over to the police, it is learnt.
One of them has been identified as Nanda Chakma of village Chongrachari, Dighinala. However, the identity of the other one could not be known.
Reformists allege that the attack came after the JSS (Santu) failed to get the police to act on their behalf.
“The Santu group tried to file a false kidnapping case against us.” said a Reformist member.
Today’s factional clash comes barely two days after an attempt on the life of Kollol Chakma, a UPDF-backed PCP activist, who joined the organisation in May after breaking ranks with the JSS.
JSS is also blamed for assassination attempts on its former General Secretary Chandra Shekhor Chakma and another influential leader Progoti Chakma in February and April.
Army conduct house searches in Baghaichari
Army conduct house searches in Baghaichari
chtnews.com
News No. 56/2009, June 16, 2009
Bangladesh Army soldiers conducted house searches in Jumma villages in Baghaichari under Rangamati district.
Sources said that on the night of 14 June, soldiers from Baghaihat zone led by Lt. Col. Anisuzzaman, Commanding Officer of the camp, took position in Babupara village and began searching houses the next morning.
“They (the army) searched each and every house of the village.” a high school teacher said on condition of anonymity, and added that “the soldiers marked the houses with colours after the search.”
On 16 June, searches were also carried out in the same way in Jeebtoli and Talukder Para.
The army action came on the heels of a HWF rally to mark the 13th anniversary of the abduction of Kalpana Chakma.
The army is blamed for her disappearance on 12 June 1996.
chtnews.com
News No. 56/2009, June 16, 2009
Bangladesh Army soldiers conducted house searches in Jumma villages in Baghaichari under Rangamati district.
Sources said that on the night of 14 June, soldiers from Baghaihat zone led by Lt. Col. Anisuzzaman, Commanding Officer of the camp, took position in Babupara village and began searching houses the next morning.
“They (the army) searched each and every house of the village.” a high school teacher said on condition of anonymity, and added that “the soldiers marked the houses with colours after the search.”
On 16 June, searches were also carried out in the same way in Jeebtoli and Talukder Para.
The army action came on the heels of a HWF rally to mark the 13th anniversary of the abduction of Kalpana Chakma.
The army is blamed for her disappearance on 12 June 1996.
Indigenous healer shot dead in Manikchari
chtnews.com
News No. 55/2009, June 16, 2009
Unknown assailants last night shot dead Mesh Kumar Chakma alias Goppua, 55, s/o Battya Chakma, a traditional healer locally known as Boidya, in Manikchari Upazila of Khagrachari district.
The incident occurred around 11:30pm in the village of Kalapani Adarsha Gram, which sits on Manikchari – Lakshmichari road. Mr. Chakma was killed with a single shot, neighbours said. His house is situated close to some six settler houses in the village.
His wife Sundari Bala Chakma, 43, said she could not recognise the killers, who melt into the darkness of the night after the incident.
The reason behind his killing could not be known. However, Mr. Chakma was embroiled in a land dispute with a Bengali settler.
Army have been deployed in the area after the incident.
News No. 55/2009, June 16, 2009
Unknown assailants last night shot dead Mesh Kumar Chakma alias Goppua, 55, s/o Battya Chakma, a traditional healer locally known as Boidya, in Manikchari Upazila of Khagrachari district.
The incident occurred around 11:30pm in the village of Kalapani Adarsha Gram, which sits on Manikchari – Lakshmichari road. Mr. Chakma was killed with a single shot, neighbours said. His house is situated close to some six settler houses in the village.
His wife Sundari Bala Chakma, 43, said she could not recognise the killers, who melt into the darkness of the night after the incident.
The reason behind his killing could not be known. However, Mr. Chakma was embroiled in a land dispute with a Bengali settler.
Army have been deployed in the area after the incident.
DYF Dighinala unit stages demo against attack on Kollol
chtnews.com
News No. 54/2009, June 16, 2009
The Democratic Youth Forum Dighinala Unit yesterday staged a demonstration against the shooting of PCP activist Kollol Chakma in Rangamati.
About two thousand attended the demonstration which paraded the sub-divisional town of Dighinala.
At a rally, DYF leader Remin Chakma condemned the attack on Kollol Chakma and urged the government to immediately arrest the culprits.
He held the Santu Larma-backed armed groups responsible for the recurrent acts of violence in Rangamati town.
Alleging that the government is not only showing leniency towards Santu Larma but also actively supporting him, Mr. Chakma said police’s failure to arrest the culprits was untenable.
“It is regrettable that while they fail to arrest the real culprits and terrorists, they continue to arrest and harass innocent villagers in Lakshimichari, Naniachar, Kudukchari and many other places.” he further said.
Mr. Chakma said following his surrender Santu Larma had changed his role and become a part of the government.
“Larma is now leading the reaction and is the only obstacle to the unity of the Jumma people.” he said and added that “His rejection of UPDF’s peace overture only helps the enemies of the Jumma people.”
News No. 54/2009, June 16, 2009
The Democratic Youth Forum Dighinala Unit yesterday staged a demonstration against the shooting of PCP activist Kollol Chakma in Rangamati.
About two thousand attended the demonstration which paraded the sub-divisional town of Dighinala.
At a rally, DYF leader Remin Chakma condemned the attack on Kollol Chakma and urged the government to immediately arrest the culprits.
He held the Santu Larma-backed armed groups responsible for the recurrent acts of violence in Rangamati town.
Alleging that the government is not only showing leniency towards Santu Larma but also actively supporting him, Mr. Chakma said police’s failure to arrest the culprits was untenable.
“It is regrettable that while they fail to arrest the real culprits and terrorists, they continue to arrest and harass innocent villagers in Lakshimichari, Naniachar, Kudukchari and many other places.” he further said.
Mr. Chakma said following his surrender Santu Larma had changed his role and become a part of the government.
“Larma is now leading the reaction and is the only obstacle to the unity of the Jumma people.” he said and added that “His rejection of UPDF’s peace overture only helps the enemies of the Jumma people.”
Protest against attack on Kollol and land grabbing in Ramgarh
chtnews.com
News No. 53/2009, June 14, 2009
There have been protest demonstrations against attack on PCP activist Kollol Chakma and settler attempts to grab land in Ramgarh.
Rangamati
Hundreds of people demonstrated in Rangamati town to demand that the government immediately arrest Santu Larma-backed armed terrorists responsible for the attack on Kollol Chakma last night.
Mr. Chakma is currently undergoing treatment in Chittagong Medical College Hospital, and his condition has been stated to be stable. He received bullet wounds beneath his right shoulder.
The demonstration was organised by UPDF Rangamati Unit. At a rally held in front of Deputy Commissioner’s office, the UPDF leaders held Santu Larma responsible for ordering the attack on Kollol Chakma, and urged him to stop terrorist activities.
The rally was addressed by DYF leaders Michael Chakma and Alakesh Chakma and Jurachari Upazila Vice Chairman Rup Kumar Chakma.
Earlier, they took out a procession from in front of Rangamati Pourasova office.
Khagrachari
Hill Student’s Council held a rally in Khagrachari to protest against settler attempts to capture land in Ramgarh and JSS attack on Kollol Chakma in Rangamati.
PCP Khagrachari District Unit leader Arpon Chakma and Batayon Chakma addressed the rally held in Swanirbhor.
Later, the participants brought out a procession in the town.
DhakaIn the afternoon, PCP Dhaka Unit held a rally and brought out a procession from Muktangon to National Press Club.
Democratic Youth Forum’s General Secretary Mithun Chakma, Hill Student’s Council leaders ThuiKyo Ching Marma, Prusing Thoai Marma and Ashim Chakma addressed the rally held at Muktangon.
The speakers condemned the attack on Kollol Chakma and demanded of the government to arrest the culprits.
They also urged to the government to stop the settlers from stealing Jumma people’s land in Ramgarh and expressed their concern about the escalating tension in the area.
Mithun Chakma held the army responsible for instigating the settlers to grab Jumma people’s land, and said there can be no peace in the hills as long as the army remains there.
News No. 53/2009, June 14, 2009
There have been protest demonstrations against attack on PCP activist Kollol Chakma and settler attempts to grab land in Ramgarh.
Rangamati
Hundreds of people demonstrated in Rangamati town to demand that the government immediately arrest Santu Larma-backed armed terrorists responsible for the attack on Kollol Chakma last night.
Mr. Chakma is currently undergoing treatment in Chittagong Medical College Hospital, and his condition has been stated to be stable. He received bullet wounds beneath his right shoulder.
The demonstration was organised by UPDF Rangamati Unit. At a rally held in front of Deputy Commissioner’s office, the UPDF leaders held Santu Larma responsible for ordering the attack on Kollol Chakma, and urged him to stop terrorist activities.
The rally was addressed by DYF leaders Michael Chakma and Alakesh Chakma and Jurachari Upazila Vice Chairman Rup Kumar Chakma.
Earlier, they took out a procession from in front of Rangamati Pourasova office.
Khagrachari
Hill Student’s Council held a rally in Khagrachari to protest against settler attempts to capture land in Ramgarh and JSS attack on Kollol Chakma in Rangamati.
PCP Khagrachari District Unit leader Arpon Chakma and Batayon Chakma addressed the rally held in Swanirbhor.
Later, the participants brought out a procession in the town.
DhakaIn the afternoon, PCP Dhaka Unit held a rally and brought out a procession from Muktangon to National Press Club.
Democratic Youth Forum’s General Secretary Mithun Chakma, Hill Student’s Council leaders ThuiKyo Ching Marma, Prusing Thoai Marma and Ashim Chakma addressed the rally held at Muktangon.
The speakers condemned the attack on Kollol Chakma and demanded of the government to arrest the culprits.
They also urged to the government to stop the settlers from stealing Jumma people’s land in Ramgarh and expressed their concern about the escalating tension in the area.
Mithun Chakma held the army responsible for instigating the settlers to grab Jumma people’s land, and said there can be no peace in the hills as long as the army remains there.
Communal riot breaks out in Ramgarh
chtnews.com
News No. 52/2009, June 14, 2009
A communal riot has been broken out in Ramgarh over a settler attempt to grab 300 acres of land belonging to Jumma people.
Jumma villagers in Ramgarh resisted a settler attempt to grab their land this morning, sources from the area say.
According to eyewitness, the incident occurred at around 9am when a group of illegal settlers from Jaliapara, Sindukchari and Guimara went to Boroitali under Hapchari Union (No. 3) and began cutting jungle for the construction of houses.
A clash ensued when hundreds of Jumma villagers resisted the settlers.
Tension had been brewing in the area since June 7 when the settlers backed by army began cutting jungle to the land.
The army, who is believed to have instigated the settlers to grab the land, provides protection to the settlers as they worked.
After facing initial resistance from the Jummas, the settlers increased their reinforcements.
Eyewitness said seven jeeps load of settlers have been mobilized in the area under army protection.
Another report said the settlers have seized Hapchari Union Parishad Chairman Krathoai Marma.
The Jummas are fearing for the worst, and many Jumma villagers, mostly women and children, have already fled their homes.
UPDF Khagrachari district unit has urged all human rights organisations to act immediately to prevent the situation from worsening further.
News No. 52/2009, June 14, 2009
A communal riot has been broken out in Ramgarh over a settler attempt to grab 300 acres of land belonging to Jumma people.
Jumma villagers in Ramgarh resisted a settler attempt to grab their land this morning, sources from the area say.
According to eyewitness, the incident occurred at around 9am when a group of illegal settlers from Jaliapara, Sindukchari and Guimara went to Boroitali under Hapchari Union (No. 3) and began cutting jungle for the construction of houses.
A clash ensued when hundreds of Jumma villagers resisted the settlers.
Tension had been brewing in the area since June 7 when the settlers backed by army began cutting jungle to the land.
The army, who is believed to have instigated the settlers to grab the land, provides protection to the settlers as they worked.
After facing initial resistance from the Jummas, the settlers increased their reinforcements.
Eyewitness said seven jeeps load of settlers have been mobilized in the area under army protection.
Another report said the settlers have seized Hapchari Union Parishad Chairman Krathoai Marma.
The Jummas are fearing for the worst, and many Jumma villagers, mostly women and children, have already fled their homes.
UPDF Khagrachari district unit has urged all human rights organisations to act immediately to prevent the situation from worsening further.
Breaking News: (chtnews.com June 13, 2009):
A member of the Hill Student’s Council (PCP), Kollol Chakma, 22, has been shot and wounded in Rangamati town.
An armed gang patronized by Santu Larma, president of Jana Samhati Samiti (Santu faction), shot him point blank at Banarupa at around 8:45pm today.
Mr. Chakma was rushed to Rangamati hospital but the attending doctors referred him to Chittagong Medical College Hospital.
He was a member of the Santu Larma-backed PCP but broke away from them in May and joined the UPDF affiliated PCP.
Since then he has been playing an important role in organising PCP in Rangamati, and he was one of the delegates who had participated in the national convention against imperialism and fascism held in Dhaka on 5 June and a special meeting of field level campaigners organised by UPDF on 6 June, also in Dhaka.
This is the third armed attack by Santu Larma on his rivals in Rangamati town.
An armed gang patronized by Santu Larma, president of Jana Samhati Samiti (Santu faction), shot him point blank at Banarupa at around 8:45pm today.
Mr. Chakma was rushed to Rangamati hospital but the attending doctors referred him to Chittagong Medical College Hospital.
He was a member of the Santu Larma-backed PCP but broke away from them in May and joined the UPDF affiliated PCP.
Since then he has been playing an important role in organising PCP in Rangamati, and he was one of the delegates who had participated in the national convention against imperialism and fascism held in Dhaka on 5 June and a special meeting of field level campaigners organised by UPDF on 6 June, also in Dhaka.
This is the third armed attack by Santu Larma on his rivals in Rangamati town.
Breaking News: (chtnews.com June 13, 2009):
A member of the Hill Student’s Council (PCP), Kollol Chakma, 22, has been shot and wounded in Rangamati town.
An armed gang patronized by Santu Larma, president of Jana Samhati Samiti (Santu faction), shot him point blank at Banarupa at around 8:45pm today.
Mr. Chakma was rushed to Rangamati hospital but the attending doctors referred him to Chittagong Medical College Hospital.
He was a member of the Santu Larma-backed PCP but broke away from them in May and joined the UPDF affiliated PCP.
Since then he has been playing an important role in organising PCP in Rangamati, and he was one of the delegates who had participated in the national convention against imperialism and fascism held in Dhaka on 5 June and a special meeting of field level campaigners organised by UPDF on 6 June, also in Dhaka.
This is the third armed attack by Santu Larma on his rivals in Rangamati town.
An armed gang patronized by Santu Larma, president of Jana Samhati Samiti (Santu faction), shot him point blank at Banarupa at around 8:45pm today.
Mr. Chakma was rushed to Rangamati hospital but the attending doctors referred him to Chittagong Medical College Hospital.
He was a member of the Santu Larma-backed PCP but broke away from them in May and joined the UPDF affiliated PCP.
Since then he has been playing an important role in organising PCP in Rangamati, and he was one of the delegates who had participated in the national convention against imperialism and fascism held in Dhaka on 5 June and a special meeting of field level campaigners organised by UPDF on 6 June, also in Dhaka.
This is the third armed attack by Santu Larma on his rivals in Rangamati town.
JSS (Santu) kidnaps UPDF supporter in Ghagra, releases later
chtnews.com
News No. 51/2009, June 13, 2009
The armed members of the Jana Samhati Samiti (Santu) kidnapped a supporter of the United People’s Democratic Front (UPDF) on 2 June and released him 8 days later, on 10 June, UPDF sources say.
Babu Chakma, aged 24, s/o Purno Rajjyo Chakma of Sapchari Shalbon village under Rangamati Sadar, was kidnapped at gun point by a group of JSS men led by Bappi Chakma at around 10am from Banaphul Studio at Ghagra bazaar.
He was first taken to JSS Ghagra Unit office and then shifted to Assam Bosti in Rangamati town via Chompatoli hill.
Mr. Chakma, former president of Santu Larma-backed PCP’s Ghagra Unit, was beaten up severely, and was released from Rangapani area after his parents made a payment of Taka 30,000.
He had deserted JSS side couples year ago and helped UPDF build a strong base in Ghagra.
His parents filed a general diary (GD) with Kotwali police station in Rangamati.
News No. 51/2009, June 13, 2009
The armed members of the Jana Samhati Samiti (Santu) kidnapped a supporter of the United People’s Democratic Front (UPDF) on 2 June and released him 8 days later, on 10 June, UPDF sources say.
Babu Chakma, aged 24, s/o Purno Rajjyo Chakma of Sapchari Shalbon village under Rangamati Sadar, was kidnapped at gun point by a group of JSS men led by Bappi Chakma at around 10am from Banaphul Studio at Ghagra bazaar.
He was first taken to JSS Ghagra Unit office and then shifted to Assam Bosti in Rangamati town via Chompatoli hill.
Mr. Chakma, former president of Santu Larma-backed PCP’s Ghagra Unit, was beaten up severely, and was released from Rangapani area after his parents made a payment of Taka 30,000.
He had deserted JSS side couples year ago and helped UPDF build a strong base in Ghagra.
His parents filed a general diary (GD) with Kotwali police station in Rangamati.
Attempt at land grabbing in Ramgarh
chtnews.com
News No. 50/2009, June 12, 2009
A settler attempt to steal about 300 acres of land belonging to Jumma people in Ramgarh has been failed, according to independent sources.
Sources said a group of illegal Bengali settlers had begun cutting jungles to capture the land in Boroitali under Hapchari Union (No. 3) on 7 June and erected a house structure with bamboos.
The army provided support to the settlers in their attempt to capture the land. They were present at the site when the settlers worked.
Because of the presence of the army the Jummas could not protest openly but destroyed the structure overnight after the settlers had left, sources said.
The next morning the settlers came back along with the army to see the demolished structure, however, they refrained from showing any reaction.
The Jummas use the said land as common property. Previously when it was covered with forests, it provided them with food, medicines and household materials.
In 1981-82, during the rule of dictator general Hussain Muhammad Ershad the army for the first time made an attempt to settle newly-arrived Bengali infiltrators on that patch of land, but the attempt failed when the Jummas put up a fiery resistance.
The second attempt was made in 2004 but again frustrated when the Jumma villagers protested.
News No. 50/2009, June 12, 2009
A settler attempt to steal about 300 acres of land belonging to Jumma people in Ramgarh has been failed, according to independent sources.
Sources said a group of illegal Bengali settlers had begun cutting jungles to capture the land in Boroitali under Hapchari Union (No. 3) on 7 June and erected a house structure with bamboos.
The army provided support to the settlers in their attempt to capture the land. They were present at the site when the settlers worked.
Because of the presence of the army the Jummas could not protest openly but destroyed the structure overnight after the settlers had left, sources said.
The next morning the settlers came back along with the army to see the demolished structure, however, they refrained from showing any reaction.
The Jummas use the said land as common property. Previously when it was covered with forests, it provided them with food, medicines and household materials.
In 1981-82, during the rule of dictator general Hussain Muhammad Ershad the army for the first time made an attempt to settle newly-arrived Bengali infiltrators on that patch of land, but the attempt failed when the Jummas put up a fiery resistance.
The second attempt was made in 2004 but again frustrated when the Jumma villagers protested.
13Th Anniversary of disappearance of Kalpana Chakma: HWF holds rally in Baghaichari
chtnews.com
News No. 49/2009, June 12, 2009
The Hill Women’s Federation has held a rally in Baghaichari today to mark the 13th anniversary of disappearance of Kalpana Chakma, one of its leaders, who was kidnapped from her home by Lt. Ferdous of Bangladesh Army.
Held at Upazila ground, the rally was presided over by Sonali Chakma, President of Hill Women’s Federation.
Noted poet Abu Bakr Siddiq and Bangladesh Lekhok Shibir (Writer’s Association) member Moinuddin Ahmed spoke as special guests.
The speakers criticized the successive governments for their failure to make the findings of the inquiry report public, and urged the present government of Awami League to break with the past.
They were also outspoken about the overwhelming military presence in the CHT and urged the government to demilitarize the area without further delay.
“What role is the military playing in CHT?” they asked, and demanded that the government put an end to the so-called “operation Uttoron” which gives the army sweeping power to arrest and kill any Jumma in CHT.
“So long as the army remains in CHT, human rights situation will not improve”, they remarked.
The speakers said land is one of the major problems in CHT and urged the government to recognise the customary land rights of the Jumma people.
“Land grabbing must stop, and the lands already grabbed by settlers must be returnedto the rightful Jumma owners”, they said.s
News No. 49/2009, June 12, 2009
The Hill Women’s Federation has held a rally in Baghaichari today to mark the 13th anniversary of disappearance of Kalpana Chakma, one of its leaders, who was kidnapped from her home by Lt. Ferdous of Bangladesh Army.
Held at Upazila ground, the rally was presided over by Sonali Chakma, President of Hill Women’s Federation.
Noted poet Abu Bakr Siddiq and Bangladesh Lekhok Shibir (Writer’s Association) member Moinuddin Ahmed spoke as special guests.
The speakers criticized the successive governments for their failure to make the findings of the inquiry report public, and urged the present government of Awami League to break with the past.
They were also outspoken about the overwhelming military presence in the CHT and urged the government to demilitarize the area without further delay.
“What role is the military playing in CHT?” they asked, and demanded that the government put an end to the so-called “operation Uttoron” which gives the army sweeping power to arrest and kill any Jumma in CHT.
“So long as the army remains in CHT, human rights situation will not improve”, they remarked.
The speakers said land is one of the major problems in CHT and urged the government to recognise the customary land rights of the Jumma people.
“Land grabbing must stop, and the lands already grabbed by settlers must be returnedto the rightful Jumma owners”, they said.s
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