Protest in Chimbuk hill condemns fanatic attack on indigenous students and rights activists in Bangladesh

Our Correspondent, Bandarban

A protest rally took place today in Chimbuk, Bandarban, as indigenous leaders and their supporters strongly condemned the recent attack on indigenous rights activists by fanatical groups in Dhaka.

The rally, organized by the indigenous students and locals aimed to demand justice for the victims of this violent assault and to raise awareness about the ongoing violations of indigenous peoples’ rights in the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT).

Hundreds of protestors gathered in Chimbuk, brandishing banners and placards that denounced the attack and called for the immediate implementation of the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) Accord.

The protestors accused the government of failing to address the rising militarization in the region and the continued encroachment on indigenous lands.

They also criticized the authorities for turning a blind eye to the growing influence of extremist factions targeting peaceful indigenous activists.

“The attack on our brothers and sisters was orchestrated by fanatics, and it is part of a broader effort to silence our voices,” said Chon Ngi Mro, an indigenous activist.

“We will not allow such violence to go unpunished, and we demand that the authorities take immediate action to identify and bring the perpetrators to justice.”

The protestors also expressed their deep concern over the increasing militarization in the Chittagong Hill Tracts, with many accusing the government of enabling the spread of fanaticism in the region.

Riyong Mro, another indigenous leader, warned that if the authorities failed to take swift action, the residents of Chimbuk would block the Chimbuk-to-Thanchi road, halting all vehicular movement in protest.

“We will not tolerate the state’s indifference. If these attacks continue, we will escalate our resistance,” Mro vowed.

In addition to calling for justice, the protestors highlighted the urgent need for the release of innocent Bawm community members who have been unjustly detained by the state.

The rally also called for the full implementation of the CHT Accord to protect the rights, lands, and autonomy of indigenous peoples.

As tensions continue to rise, indigenous leaders are demanding that the government take immediate steps to halt the rising tide of fanaticism and violence against their communities.

 At least thirteen indigenous students and human rights activists were severely injured in Dhaka on Wednesday during an attack by a fanatical group called Students for Sovereignty.

The group opposed the inclusion of the term “Adivasi” (indigenous) and its accompanying graffiti image in textbooks.