The Parbatya Chattogram Nagarik Parishad (PCNP) on Wednesday demanded inclusion of its representatives in the government’s newly formed executive and advisory committees on the Chattogram Hill Tracts (CHT), saying local stakeholders should have a role in finding a lasting solution to the region’s problems.
The demand came at a discussion meeting and press conference arranged by the PCNP and Matribhoomi Suraksha Andolan at the national press club in the city.
PCNP Chairman Kazi Mujibur Rahman welcomed the formation of the national, executive and advisory committees and placed a seven-point set of demands before the government.
The demands include repeal of the CHT Regulation, 1900, introduction of a land-management system similar to that in the plains and resumption of land settlement for landless Bengalis and indigenous people.
The PCNP also called for BGB border outposts at one-kilometre intervals, restoration of withdrawn Army camps and establishment of a full Army division in the hill region.
It further demanded development of tourism, equal taxation rights for Bengali and indigenous residents, and establishment of more higher educational institutions, medical colleges and technology universities in the three hill districts.
Several speakers alleged that groups like JSS, UPDF and KNF were involved in armed activities and extortion in the CHT and called for stronger action against the groups and illegal arms.
PCNP leaders also rejected claims of military rule in the hills, with speakers citing the Bangladesh Army’s involvement in medical services, disaster response, vocational training and other humanitarian activities.
Speaking as the chief guest, Islami Andolan Bangladesh Presidium Member Ashraf Ali Akon alleged that armed groups were seeking to destabilise the country with foreign support and called for stronger security measures in the CHT.
Some speakers also alleged that sections of civil society and intellectuals were supporting or promoting narratives favourable to armed groups.
They did not provide evidence for the allegations at the event.