On 22 September 2012 Bangladesh army backed Muslim settlers attacked indigenous Buddhist people in Rangamati. When the indigenous people counter attacked in self defence Bangladesh army took side with the Muslim settlers. 76 indigenous people were injured and numerous indigenous properties were destroyed.

Bangladesh army grab indigenous land without compensation in Baghaichari

On February 21, 2024, Major Mohammed Shamim Sarkar summoned 3 indigenous Union Council members at the Kachuichari army camp. The army officer refused to compensate the land acquired from the indigenous people for the construction of the Border Road. 3 Union Council members were-

1. Priya Bikash Chakma, a member of Ward No. 5 of Baghaichari union,
2. Sugata Chakma, a member of Ward No. 1 of Sarwatuli union and
3. Nirupam Chakma, former member of Ward No. 8 of Baghaichari union.

222 indigenous families had lost their lands for the construction of 14 km long border road from Kajoichari Mukh to Majhipara under Baghaichari upazila by the Bangladesh army. It destroyed and damaged houses, shops and many valuable teak trees and various fruit plantations of the villagers. The affected villagers staged demonstrations, processions and rallies against the project as it was started without their consent and affected them. Besides, they demanded proper compensation from the Bangladesh army and civil administration.

In response to their movement and demand, Bangladesh army asked a list of the victims along with the amount of damage. The villagers submitted an application to a Warrant Officer of the Army on September 11, 2022 demanding compensation along with a list of victims. Several times, the villagers contacted the army but every time the victims were said there was no allocation yet. Almost a year passed in this way.

But the last project officer Major Md Shamim Sarkar said that no compensation would be given to the affected villagers. Major Md Shamim Sarkar also said that their (villagers) list and paper documents of damage were fake, so no compensation would be given. Major Md. Shamim’s words has caused extreme despair and anger among the people.

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