Strict action must be taken against attempts to disturb the hilly areas

Tension has been prevailing in the hilly district of Khagrachhari for the past few days. Conflict between the hilly and Bengali communities have been rising over a rape incident. There have been attacks, counter-attacks, and arson attacks.

Three people were killed in the firing by the miscreants. Section 144 was imposed to maintain law and order. Along with the police, the army and BGB patrols were strengthened. They were also attacked.

Many people, including 11 army personnel, were injured. Meanwhile, Jumma students and the public have called for an indefinite road blockade in all three hill districts from Monday.

There are allegations that some vested interests, both domestic and foreign, are taking advantage of this incident to create unrest throughout the hilly region.

According to media reports, on September 23, a schoolgirl was accused of gang rape in Singinala, Khagrachhari. Shayan Shil, the suspect claimed by the UPDF in this incident, was arrested on September 24 with the help of the army. Efforts are ongoing to arrest the rest.

Despite this, a protest march and human chain were held in Khagrachhari on September 24 under the banner of ‘Jumma Chhatra-Janta’ led by the leader of the UPDF’s affiliate PCP. A half-day strike was also observed in Khagrachhari on September 25. Continuous road blockades began on September 27.

Various types of sabotage including vandalism of vehicles on the road, attacks on ambulances, clandestine picketing and attacks were going on.

Attempts to incite hill-Bengali riots continued. Considering the situation, the district administration imposed Section 144 in Khagrachari and Guimara areas.

Since the morning of September 28, incidents of chases and counter-chases have been taking place in violation of Section 144 in the Ramsu Bazar area of Guimara Upazila of Khagrachhari.

Rape is definitely a heinous crime. Such crimes are happening frequently in the plains too. The administration is taking action against the criminals. But the administration needs to be given some time to take action. It is not desirable to drag this into a different sector in any way.

Sometimes there are attacks on banks, on police and emergency services. At times there are also attacks on ordinary people. Money is being extorted through kidnapping and hostage-taking.

Immediate measures must be taken to protect the lives and property of innocent residents of the hilly areas. In addition to maintaining law and order, strict operations must be carried out to recover illegal firearms.