A seminar was recently held at the Agartala Press Club under the banner of ‘Champion for Humanity Protection’. It focused on the worsening crisis of tribal communities in the Chittagong Hill-Tracts (CHT) of Bangladesh. The event aimed to raise awareness about the existential threats facing these communities, especially the Chakmas and Mogs.
Historical Background of the Crisis
Since the early 1980s, tribals in CHT have faced severe repression. During the 1947 partition, they made up roughly 97.5% of the population. Over time, government policies encouraged the resettlement of large numbers of Muslims from Bangladesh’s plainlands. This significantly reduced the tribal population and undermined their demands for autonomy. Today, tribals constitute less than half of their historic homeland. Many have even moved into border areas of India seeking safety.
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Seminar Proceedings
The seminar featured speeches from prominent figures. Niranjan Chakma, veteran journalist and president of Champion for Humanity Protection, presided over the event. Other speakers included Dr. Chandra Sekhar Kar, Dt. Shyamal Chakma, Nayan Jyoti Tripura, and activist Bipangshu Chakma.
The discussion highlighted several key issues:
- Continued marginalization of tribals in CHT
- Failure of successive Bangladeshi governments to honor the 1997 peace accord
- Threats from Islamic fundamentalist groups supported by the current government
Call for International Intervention
Speakers stressed the urgent need for global attention. They urged the Government of India and the United Nations to take action to protect tribals’ lives, property, and dignity. The seminar emphasized that CHT remains the ancestral homeland of these communities. Preserving their cultural and social heritage is critical.
Geopolitical Implications
The event also noted that neglecting the tribal crisis could destabilize the region. Cross-border tensions could rise if the situation worsens. Speakers called for proactive humanitarian and diplomatic measures to prevent further displacement and ensure the survival of the tribal communities.
The seminar succeeded in raising awareness and mobilizing support for the tribals of CHT. Organizers emphasized that protecting these communities is not only a matter of justice but also a pressing humanitarian concern. Immediate action from both national and international agencies is needed to secure their future.
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