Nov 12, 2004

Chittagong Hill Tracts: Full implementation of CHT Accord demanded


CHT representatives stressed the need for changing the mindset of the government for total implementation of the accord
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Speakers at a memorial meeting in the city yesterday reiterated their demand for full implementation of the Chittagong Hill Tracts Accord with a view to protect the special traits of life and living of the hill people.

Addressing a discussion in observance of 21st death anniversary of late Manabendra Larma, a popular leader of the hill people, they stressed the need for changing the mindset of the government for total implementation of the accord.

The speakers said the approach of the government, the army and the settlers in the hills should be coordinated for establishing complete peace in the Hill Tracts. The Army and the settlers must be withdrawn from the Hill Tracts to restore unhindered normalcy in the hills, they demanded.

Paying rich tributes to Manabendra, the discussants said that he was the leader who could unite 11 ethnic groups to realise the rights of the tribal people. He was jailed and subsequently killed by the conspirators, they said.

Rashed Khan Menon, President, Workers Party of Bangladesh, Moinuddin Ahmed Khan Badal, Executive President of JSD, Pankaj Bhattacharya, member of the presidium of Gono Forum, Sree Sanjib Drong, General Secretary of Bangladesh Adibashi Forum took part in the discussion.

It was presided over by Professor Mesbah Kamal, convener, Bangladesh Adibashi Adhikar Andolan.

Source: Independent Bangladesh