The recent eruption of violence in the Chattogram Hill Tracts (CHT) is a reminder of the region’s fragile peace and unresolved tensions. At least four people lost their lives and nearly hundred others were injured amid violent clashes in Khagrachhari and Rangamati districts over the past two days. The local administration imposed Section 144 to prevent further escalation of the unrest, restricting public gatherings in these areas.
The tensions began with the tragic death of Md Mamun, who was beaten to death on suspicion of theft in Khagrachhari on September 18. This incident drove protests among the people of the CHT plains, who took to the streets demanding justice. As tensions rose between the residents of the plains of CHT and indigenous communities, violence erupted, resulting in further casualties. In Rangamati, a protest organised by hill students escalated into a fierce conflict, with protesters clashing with residents of the plains, leading to the death of a person and injuries to more than 50 others.
The deployment of law enforcement agencies to the area reflects the gravity of the situation. Patrols have been strengthened and public movement has been heavily restricted. Despite these measures, the problem remains volatile, with reports of vandalism, arson, and even gunfire in certain areas. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) has warned of the risk of further unrest if the situation is not rapidly brought under control.
While the violence’s immediate cause is rooted in the tragic death of Mamun, the underlying tensions are far more complex. The CHT has a long history of conflict, mainly driven by disputes between the indigenous hill communities and Bengali settlers over land rights, political representation and cultural autonomy. Although the 1997 CHT Peace Accord temporarily eased the tension in the region, some factors contributing to the simmering bitterness that sometimes boils over into violence.
The tragic events of the past few days
highlight the urgent need for sustained
efforts to bring about lasting peace in
the CHT.
In the face of this unrest, the government must take a multifaceted approach to restore order and address the conflict’s underlying causes. First and foremost, a fair investigation must be conducted into the incidents of violence. Regardless of their connection, those responsible for stirring and participating in the clashes must be answerable. This is critical not only for delivering justice to the victims but also for averting a culture of impunity from taking root in the region.
Furthermore, the local leaders from Bengalis living on the plains and indigenous communities must play a positive role in easing tensions. Their involvement is essential in promoting dialogue and rebuilding faith between the groups. The ISPR’s call for local leaders to assist security forces in maintaining peace is a step in the right direction. However, this must be coupled with more comprehensive efforts to foster resolution and cooperation.
Beyond the immediate response, the government must renew its commitment to addressing the longstanding grievances of the indigenous communities in the CHT. Failure to resolve these issues threatens the region’s stability and undermines the progress made since the signing of the peace accord. A broad, inclusive approach that respects the rights of all communities is necessary for ensuring long-term peace in the CHT.
The tragic events of the past few days highlight the urgent need for sustained efforts to bring about lasting peace in the CHT. The imposition of Section 144 and the deployment of the security forces may help prevent immediate violence but the government must work for permanent peace in the region.
The future of the CHT depends on the ability of all stakeholders—government, civil society, and local communities—to work together in a spirit of cooperation and mutual respect. Only through dialogue, justice, and a commitment to peace can the region overcome its troubled past and move toward a more stable and prosperous future.
