Indigenous Communities Under Fire: International Call for Action on Recent Attacks in Bangladesh

SAN JOSE, Calif. - Sept. 22, 2024 - PRLog -- San Jose, California / Dhaka, Bangladesh – The Human Rights Congress for Bangladesh Minorities (HRCBM) urgently calls on international media, human rights organizations, and the global community to address the mass attacks against Indigenous communities in the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) of Bangladesh, specifically in Diginala, Khagrachari, and Rangamati. Recent violence, marked by arson, looting, and alleged gunfire, has resulted in multiple deaths, injuries, and the displacement of hundreds of families, creating a severe humanitarian crisis.

Details of the Crisis:

On September 19, 2024, Bengali Muslim settlers, allegedly supported by the Bangladesh Army, launched attacks against Indigenous communities. Over 100 homes and shops were burned in Diginala, Khagrachari, and Rangamati, displacing hundreds and destroying livelihoods. Eyewitnesses and video evidence reveal continuous gunfire throughout the night, reportedly aimed at Indigenous villagers, causing widespread panic.

Reports suggest Army involvement, with witnesses describing uniformed personnel firing at villagers rather than protecting them. Videos circulating on social media appear to show Army personnel firing in areas populated by Indigenous communities, intensifying fears. At least three Indigenous individuals—Junan Chakma, Dhananjay Chakma, and Rubel Tripura—died from injuries sustained during the attacks, with many others wounded.

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Background:

The Indigenous communities of the CHT have long faced systemic discrimination, land dispossession, and violence. Despite the 1997 CHT Peace Accord, promises of autonomy and demilitarization remain unfulfilled, leaving these communities vulnerable. Minority groups in Bangladesh, including Hindus, Christians, and Indigenous peoples, endure marginalization, biased legal systems, and limited access to justice. The recent attacks continue a pattern of violence and exclusion against these communities.

Call to Action:

HRCBM urges the media, human rights organizations, and international bodies to:

1. Report and Raise Awareness: Amplify global awareness of the crisis in the CHT through investigative reporting and public campaigns.
2. Demand Accountability: Advocate for an independent investigation into the attacks, including alleged Army involvement, to ensure accountability.
3. Provide Humanitarian Aid: Urge the international community to provide immediate assistance, including food, medical care, and shelter for displaced families.
4. Support Indigenous Rights: Promote protection of Indigenous rights in Bangladesh and pressure the government to prevent further violence.

These mass attacks are not isolated incidents but part of a broader historical pattern of discrimination against minorities in Bangladesh. HRCBM calls for urgent international action to address this crisis, support the victims, and ensure justice and safety for Indigenous communities.