Ven. Prajnalankar Bhikkhu statement on Human Rights in Bangladesh
UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous IssuesFourth Session
New York, 16-27 May 2005


Thank you, Madam Chairperson, for giving me this opportunity to speak.
Distinguished members of the PFII, government delegates, representatives of UN agencies and indigenous sisters and brothers!

I am speaking on be half of the Peace Campaign Group, an organization of the Jumma indigenous people for policy research and human rights advocacy in the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT).

Madam Chair,
PF is a learning process. It is mutually enriching. We should integrate the experience we gain from here into our policies and actions for better future of the indigenous peoples and the society as a whole. It is time to speak the truth. It is time to be constructive. And it is time to redress our “past mistakes”. However, Madam Chair, we are profoundly shocked and disappointed by the statement of the distinguished delegation of Bangladesh. The statement does not reflect the reality faced by the indigenous people in the CHT. It is a false statement. So, we disagree with it.
The 23 January 2005 Issue of the New York Times Magazine published an article namely, “The Next Islamist Revolution?” The article deals with the growing religious extremism in Bangladesh and its serious threat to all democratic institutions.

The 2001 general elections in Bangladesh voted a four-party coalition [Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), Jamaat-e-Islam, Islami Okyo Jote (United Alliance of Muslims) and Jatiyo Party (M)] to power. It helped religious extremist groups and organizations, like Jagrata Muslim Janata, Harkatul Jihad and Quami Madrasa Musaderin, gain a strong ground in the country. The country with religious extremist policy-makers in power is now on the brink of a “failed state” with strong potential of a “terrorist state”. With 88% Muslims of the 141 million peopled poor Islamic state (in the sense of recognition of Islam as “state religion”: Part I, Article 2 A, Bangladesh Constitution), “Bangladesh is Now New Rest Stop for Fugitives” (Taliban and Al-Qaed remnants), reported the Herald on 23 October 2002. These facts have been well-documented in the Alex Perry’s “Deadly Cargo”, Bertil Lintner’s “BANGLADESH: A Cocoon of Terror” and Eliza Griswold’s “The Next Islamist Revolution”.

The country has already been greatly troubled by serial political killings of opposition leaders; violent attacks on Western interests; control over and suppression of independent media persons, human rights activists, intellectuals and indigenous political leaders; and systematic racial discrimination and ethnic-cleansing against the indigenous peoples and religious minorities (Bengali-speaking Hindus, Buddhists and Christians).

For example,
1. Bomb blasts on the Awami League rally on 21 August 2004 in Dhaka in which former Prime Minister Ms. Sheikh Hasina was narrowly survived and dozen of her party colleagues were killed, bomb blasts killing her think-tank and former Finance Minister Shah S. A. M. S. Kibria along with four other opposition leaders on 27 January 2005 in Dhaka and the Awami League Dhaka Branch League Advisor Khorshed Alam on 17 May 2005;

2. Grenade hurling on the British High Commissioner on 21 May 2004 in Sylhet apparently for UK’s role in the US-led “coalition campaign” in Afghanistan and Iraq;

3. Bomb blasts in Khulna Press Club hurting four journalists on 4 February 2005, threat to the office of the Bengali daily Prothom Alo in Dhaka on 19 August 2004, killing of a Dhaka University Prof. Humayun Azad on 11 August 2004, threat to controversial writer and feminist Taslima Nasreen and writer and minority rights activist Salam Azad which forced them to flee to India for personal security recently, barring the PCJSS (Parbatya Chattagram Jana Samhati Samiti, the only political organization representing the Jumma indigenous people) President and CHT Regional Council Chairman Jyotirindra Bodhipriyo Larma from attending the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues held in May 2004 in New York and blocking the travel document (passport) of Rupayan Dewan, Vice-President and In-charge, External Relations, PCJSS; and

4. Blatant violation of the CHT Accord signed between the PCJSS and the previous Awami League government in 1997, violent communal attack on the 14 indigenous villages on 26 August 2003 in Mahalchari, military crackdown on indigenous political and student activists on 25 May 2004 in Guimara and growing religious intolerance and atrocities against Hindus, Buddhists and Christians in plain districts. No proper investigations into these crimes have been conducted. Rather, the government has been allegedly creating obstacles in the process of investigation. All these lead us to the conclusion that religious extremist policy-makers in power have taken control over the real administration of Bangladesh and now they are engaging religious extremist groups and goons in elimination of all democratic institutions to establish some sort of Islamic rule in line with Eliza’s “Next Islamist Revolution” in the country.
The government has violated all the key promises made in the CHT Accord. The CHT, the traditional homeland of the Jumma indigenous people, has been converted into a virtual cantonment of Bangladesh military surrounded by hundreds of masques, madrasas and Muslim Bengali settlements. The military continue to be the de facto authority in the region despite commitment made in the CHT Accord for their withdrawal. The indigenous people have been hostage to the repressive Bangladeshi military regime codenamed “Operation Uttoran”.
The government has been engaged in doing all suitable for its hidden program of islamization in the CHT. Indigenous political, human rights and student activists, who oppose this program and demand for proper implementation of the CHT Accord in democratic way, are arrested, tortured and sent to jail on false charges of “terror”, “extortion” and so on. They are being so terrorized psychologically that they are even going to lose their morale to democratically protest human rights abuses committed against them. In fact, the indigenous people are living in such a situation where they are not free to exercise their democratic rights and fundamental rights and freedoms. The most threatening thing is state-sponsored crimes -- and settlement of Muslim Bengalis in large number in lands traditionally owned by indigenous people under military security-cover -- a demographic invasion -- a silent genocide -- against the indigenous people. Muslim population in the CHT has increased from 2% in 1947 to more than 60% in 2001! It was only last week that the coalition government has decided to settle 60, 000 more new Muslim Bengali settlers in Sajek area in the CHT. The situation in the CHT can alone be compared to that happening in Darfur few months ago. Because of growing religious extremism and serious law and order problems in Bangladesh, donor representatives denied attending Bangladesh Development Forum in Dhaka in April 2005 and SAARC meeting, which was scheduled in April 2005, had to be postponed for indefinite time.
Religious (Islamic) extremism and corruption are the main challenges for development and peace in the CHT. It may be noted that Bangladesh has figured as the “most corrupt country” in the world in the four consecutive years (2001, 02, 03, and 04-- Reports, Transparency International, Bangladesh).
The coalition government elected democratically in 2001 has turned out to be a corrupt Islamic autocratic regime before the end of its five-year term! It is a terrible mockery with democracy. Now the coalition appears to have engaged itself in a systematic campaign to eliminate its oppositions and flood the CHT with Muslim Bengali settlers before the next general elections due to be held sometime in 2006. In these circumstances, if the international community does not intervene with Bangladesh now, the indigenous people of the CHT will be forced to choose one of the following options:
a. To leave their homeland permanently
b. To embrace Islam
c. To commit suicide
d. To wage an armed struggle.

Madam Chairperson,

We want a free and multicultural democratic society in Bangladesh. Therefore, we strongly recommend the followings:

1. To declare Bangladesh a “failed state” and immediately send UN peace-keeping force to the CHT for security and protection of the Jumma indigenous people;
2. To impose economic sanction against Bangladesh for not respecting the basic human rights and freedoms of the indigenous peoples and non-compliance with its obligations to the CHT Accord and the Bangladesh Development Forum; and
3. To conduct a detail investigation into the current CHT situation by the UN Special Rapportuer on the Human Rights Situations of Indigenous Peoples.

Thank you, Madam Chairperson, for your kind attention!

UNPO concerned over Land Invasion in CHT
10-04-2006


The Unrepresented Nations and Peoples Organization (UNPO) is deeply concerned about the intrusion of illegal plain settlers to the lands of indigenous communities in Chittagong Hill Tracts in Bangladesh. On 6 April 2006, in light of recent events, UNPO issued appeals to the Government of Bangladesh including Prime Minister Mrs. Khaleda Zia, Deputy Minister Mr. Mani Swapan Dewan and State Minister Mr. Md. Lutfozzaman Babor as well as to Ambassador H.E. Dr. Chowdhury, Permanent Mission of Bangladesh in the UN and H.E. Ms. Ismat Jahan, Bangladesh Ambassador in The Hague.
Background:
On the morning of 3 April 2006, tribal villages of the Chittagong Hill Tracts of Bangladesh were attacked by the illegal plain settlers and the Bangladesh security forces, according to a report of the Asian Centre for Human Rights. Dozens of tribal villagers were reported to have been injured and sent to hospital, including Tuku Mani Chakma, Junal Marma, Sa Prue Marma, Thuimra Ching Marma, Myasu Marma, Afing Krai Marma. In addition, Thuimraching Marma (16) and Afing Krai Marma (20), were said to be raped by Bengali settlers at Sa Prue Karbari in Mahalchari, Khagrachari on the same day.
Whereas the Chittagong Hill Tracts is the homeland of indigenous Jumma people, they are constantly facing threats from illegal settlers to occupy their land. Bangladesh authorities have not been effective in protecting the rights of Jumma people to live in their homeland, but allowed its security forces to assist the occupation of illegal settlers in the Chittagong Hill Tracts. The 3 April attack on innocent Jumma villagers is another incident of gross human rights violations in the region.
UNPO has called upon the Government of Bangladesh to take the necessary steps to bring into justice those responsible for the attack on 3 April and to put an end to the human rights violations against the indigenous Jumma people in Chittagong Hill Tracts.

Chakma artist wants to change country’s image
Gulf Times: Friday, 7 April, 2006


Chakma artist Kanakchanpa Chakma, whose painting won the best prize at an exhibition in the US, says she wants to show to the world the rich cultural heritage of the country known more for its poverty and underdevelopment.
Chakma's work 'Searching for Peace' was felicitated at the American Museum of Art exhibition in Florida, held to mark the International Women's Day, according to The Daily Star.
Chakma, who won a similar prize in 2001, said she was happy not only because she won the prize but also because Bangladesh had come into the limelight.
"The world thinks of our country as a poor nation, devastated by floods, famines and overpopulation. I want them to know the positive side of Bangladesh too - that the country inspires creations that surpass others in thought, imagination and beauty. "We are very rich in our culture as our roots go back to thousands of years, and this is something that cannot be minimised," she said.
The painting, an acrylic on canvas, shows a Buddhist priest moving away from a background of red that stands for conflict, bloodshed and disorder. Nearby is a large gleaming bell that denotes peace.
"My works are purchased because they are good. Not because I am a Buddhist or a tribal," said Chakma who has won many national and international awards. "People sometimes say that I represent the ethnic, so I'm different. As a consequence people buy my work. There are other Chakma artists too but their work has not won the popularity that I have been lucky to get. I believe that I'm working as a mainstream artist bringing up subjects of international importance."
Chakma has just returned from Pakistan where she had been invited by a women's charity organisation. In a somewhat novel event in Karachi, she painted while Farida Parveen sang in the background.
The money from the sale of the painting was donated to victims of last year's devastating earthquake. – IANS

Governor of Mizoram: visited CADC
The Telegraph: Aizawl, April 17, 2006


Governor A.R. Kohli returned after an 11-day tour of south Mizoram on Saturday evening.
The governor, who embarked on his journey on April 5, is the first dignitary to have visited Parva village, located on the southernmost fringe of Mizoram, at the trijunction of India, Myanmar and Bangladesh, by road. The Border Roads Organisation completed work on the road days before Kohli’s visit.
J.K. Singh, commanding officer of 71 RCC, entrusted with the responsibility of connecting Parva to the rest of the state, said the remaining 20 km of road was completed in a record two-and-a-half months. “It was a challenge thrown to us by His Excellency which we were determined to meet. My men worked non-stop seven days a week despite the difficulties caused by terrain, climate and mosquitoes. Sadly, one of my men died of malaria. He contracted the parasite during the construction of the road. But we are proud of our achievement,” he said.
Kohli visited Chawngte (Kamalanagar) town to inaugurate the branch office of the SBI in this Chakma Autonomous District Council headquarters on April 5, but the staff strike forced him to return. He had to make a second visit to the town a week later, to open the first ever bank in Chawngte on April 13.
The governor was accorded a warm welcome in all the 30 villages he stopped at, most of which were receiving him for the first time. His message to the villagers hinged on the importance of education, promising at the same time to look into their grievances.
Road connectivity, telephone lines, electricity, drinking water and medical facilities were the main complaints voiced by the residents.
Kohli, whose term ends on May 17 this year, assured the people that he would put in place a system which would ensure the implementation of initiatives taken up by him at the state and district levels.
Kohli will be the first head of state to serve his full term in Mizoram.

Killing Chakma civilian by BSF personnel in Mizoram


Asian Centre for Human Rights today approached the National Human Rights Commission to seek intervention against arbitrary killing of a Chakma tribal villager, Gubalya Chakma and injuring of at least four others in indiscriminate firing by the Border Security Force personnel at Bhulanchuri village in Lunglei district of Mizoram on 15 April 2006. A protest march is being organized by the Chakma civil society groups at Demagiri today.
In the evening of 15 April 2006, a Chakma Buddhist monk was going to deliver Mangala Sutra, a religious sermon of the Buddhist. One BSF commander, Mr U S Mehta and his driver from Khojoichuri camp who were traveling in a jeep intercepted the Buddhist monk. They manhandled the monk and asked unnecessary questions like whether he was a Bangladeshi citizen and whether he ate beef, and tried to tear his holy robes. As the Buddhist monk shouted for help, many Chakma villagers came for rescue and gheraoed the BSF jeep. The Chakmas prevented the BSF personnel from moving on until the Village Council President arrived.
However, before the Village Council President could reach the spot, a group of BSF personnel from Khojoichuri camp came there and began indiscriminate lathi charge and firing upon unarmed civilians without inquiring anything. Gubalya Chakma was hit by bullets at the belly and at the forehead and died on the spot. Four others have received life-threatening injuries and presently being treated at the Lunglei Civil Hospital. A 70-year-old villager Eganya Chakma was brutally beaten with lathi and rifle butts.
“The fact that the deceased was shot on the forehead and others were hit on the belly show that the intention of firing was to kill the unarmed civilians and not control the crowd. Such arbitrary killings in violation of national and international laws must not be justified under any circumstances.” – stated Mr Suhas Chakma, Director of Asian Centre for Human Rights.
ACHR urged the NHRC to direct the Ministry of Home Affairs and the State Government of Mizoram to order a judicial probe into the incident, provide free treatment to the injured and compensation of Rs 5,00,000 (five lakhs) to the next of kin of the deceased and Rs 100000 (one lakh) each to the injured persons and take stern action against the culprits.

Cong hurls graft slur on Mizo govt
Today's Edition:Aizawl, April 23 2006


The Congress in the state has accused the Mizo National Front-led government of trying to hush up cases of corruption.
Accusing the Chakma Autonomous District Council and the government of being hand in glove, the Chakma District Congress Committee from Kamalanager (Chawngte) said in a statement that state education minister R. Lalthangliana had inaugurated the new building of the Kamalanager Higher Secondary School on Thursday though a case relating to the building was pending in court.
The statement said the construction of the school building was allotted to an unregistered contractor, Basundara Chakma, wife of a member of the district council, Prema Ranjan Chakma.
The building began to develop cracks shortly after construction was completed, leading to allegations that substandard materials had been used. The Congress committee instructed its president, K.K. Tongchongya and its media vice-chairman Amar Sriti Chakma to film the building on March 25.
The statement said fearing bad publicity, Prema Ranjan Chakma lodged an FIR accusing Tongchongya and Chakma of conspiring to damage the building. Police then seized the video cassette and registered a case against the two.
After the case was registered, the committee then submitted a written request to the authorities to keep the school building closed to ensure that the contractor did not get a chance to cover up the evidence of poor construction. Instead, the statement alleged that the contractor was given an opportunity to repair the bad portions.
The education minister also inaugurated the school building despite the committee’s request against accepting the invitation.
\Condemning the acts of the state government and the district council, the statement warned that the committee would not remain a silent spectator to this corruption but would fight against it at all levels.

Dispute over land ownership in CHT: Mistrust among tribal, settlers widens
The Nationa, 25 Apr 2006


Dispute over the possession and ownership of land apparently seems to be the main cause of dispute among the hill people and settlers that worsens the relationships between them in the hill districts of Khagrachari, Bandarban and Rangamati.Mutual mistrust due to land dispute is worsening the situation in hill districts and their seems to be divisions even among leaders of some hill people's organisations who fight each other to further complicate the problems of disharmony. The common people from among the average-men both from the hill people and Bangali settlers are not involved in conspiracies to harm each other. Instead they want to live in peace and harmony with each other.Both the hill people and Bangali settlers are accusing each other for grabbing their lands forcibly. But visiting different areas of Khagrachari this correspondent found that most of the Bangali settlers, now living at different "cluster villages" in the district, are facing untold suffering as they cannot go back at their lands.In most cases, the Bangali people cannot go back their lands as the hill people grabbed those and in some cases they cannot go there, as they are being threaten by hill people of severe consequences.Abdur Rahim, a resident of Jaliapara cluster village at Ramgarh of the district, told that along with other 2600 family members, he was taken in the village about 20 years back following the massacre of Bangali settlers by the then Shanti Bahini but he is yet to go back to his leased land to cultivate as hill people grabbed it forcibly. The father of two daughters with a gloom face said that they had to depend on ration to live. Rahim's father was, among 1000 who were, killed by the then Shanti Bahini in 1986.Sheikh Mizanur Rahman of Jaliapara cluster village alleged that hill people grabbed his land.Khurshid Alam of Hazrachara mouja who lost his father, mother, brother, sister and sister in law as Shanti Bahini killed them in 1984 and Khaleda Khatun who lost her left leg to the same Bahini also alleged that they could not go back at their lands as hill people threaten them not to go there."We are living in the cluster villages in inhuman state as the number of families in each cluster village has increased almost four times," said Khaleda Khatun regretting that the government neither took any measure to ease their sufferings nor to bring them back to their lands giving necessary security.Some of the Bangali settlers showed documents in favour of their ownership of lands and alleged that they were paying taxes of those lands but could not go back due to security reasons.A total of 37 families who returned to their lease lands at Gamaidhala under Khagrachari Sadar Thana are living with insecurity as hill people are continuously threatening them to leave the land.Halima Begum, 70, said she came there soon after she got marriage. Four of her family members including her husband was buried here in this land. Referring to the suffering for shifting houses of the settlers repeatedly she said, we returned back from Nunchari cluaster village on April 6. "We will not go back there; they kill us through bullets. We cannot bear such type of sufferings any more," she said recalling that they built their houses and grew many trees and crops in the soil. Joynal Abedin, Chairman of Khagrachari Pourashava alleged, instead of having necessary documents and lease-papers with tax receipts in favour of ownership, Bangalis cannot go back at their lands.Mostafizur Rahman Millat, Member-Secretary of Somoadhikar Andolon, Khagrachari, said there are recommendations of the headmen, who are due to realise taxes of the lands, for giving lease of lands to each Bangali. But the hill people who are claiming ownership of those lands cannot show their documents. Belayet Hossain Bhuiyan, Chairman of Ramgarh Pourashava, termed dispute over land ownership as the main problem in the hill alleging that the hill people are grabbing lands of Bangali one after another.He said the government should form local coordination committees comprising representatives from all communities, including Bangali to settle the disputes over the ownership of the lands in hilly areas.Belayet Hossain however, said that neither the tribal people want to survey of lands nor they agree to show their documents in favour of the ownership of their lands; rather they prefer saying that they do not need documents; they are the owners of the hill lands traditionally.Terming the land commission ineffective one, Belayet Hossain said, "We do not abide by the commission because as there is no Bangali representative in it and it cannot protect the interest of the Bangali community."Monindra Lal Tripura, newly appointed Chairman of Khagrachari District Council, told The New Nation that land survey to demarcate the land is very essential to settle land disputes among the hill people and Bangali settlers for a permanent solution of the problem by ending their misunderstanding."A committee acceptable to all should be formed accommodating representatives from all communities including the Bangali settlers to hand over lands to the real owners properly," he said.The Chairman also suggested that the government could bring necessary amendments to the relevant laws, if necessary, for this purpose.Khagrachari Police Super Mohammad Nowsher Ali told newsmen that the root cause of most criminal cases are based on land dispute; so conducting a survey is very essential to resolve the complicity over the ownership of land.Probin Chandra Chakma, a social activist in Khagrachari said, general people of the hill want to live in peace and harmony."The government should take realistic measures to resolve the problems relating to lands in hilly areas," he observed.

Battle for Mong throne


KhagrachhariDispute over throne and conflict between traditional indigenous and government laws put the Kingdom of Mong in the hill district of Khagrachhari in disorder and chaos.
The Mong Circle on over 2700 square kilometer of land is an autonomous area ruled by indigenous people since the British colonial period.
Different tribes, including Chakma, Marma, Tripura, Rakhine and Mag, have been living in 1200 villages under 34 unions in the kingdom of Mong Circle.
The king rules his kingdom in 88 Mouzas with the help of 88 headmen (mouza heads) and 950 Karbaris (village chiefs).
But the trouble began when King Mong Prue Chaine died in 1991 and Paila Prue Chowdhury was sworn in as the acting king. Besides, appointment of Paila Prue by the government in 1998 as king of the 'autonomous estate' further deepened the problem over throne between Paila Prue and Unika Devi, daughter of late king Mong Prue Chaine.
As such, the Mong circle is now under a dual rule.
Unika decides everything, including local arbitration and possession of land with the support of 'subjects', though Paila Prue is in the throne.
Rajib Roy, husband of Unika Devi, claimed that neither Paila Prue Chowdhury nor anybody else can be the king of Mong circle as long as the daughter of late Mong Prue Chaine is alive and active.
Unika rules the circle as heir to the throne under a will written by her father Mong Prue, he said.
On the other hand, Paila Prue also claims himself as the legal king of the same circle.
“Being appointed by the government, as per law of the country, I am the legal king now,” he said.
"Unika and her husband Rajib are trying to control the circle by force," Paila Prue said.
Advocate Monjur Morshed Bhuiyan, a senior lawyer, said the matter now requires to be settled in the court and anyone having the court order in favour will be the next king.
After the death of King Mong Prue the government appointed 88 headmen to help collect revenue and mediate purchase and sale of land, sources said.
Now the headmen are left with a very little job as the local deputy commissioner's office has been entrusted with the responsibility of revenue collection recently and the fund crisis makes the king unable to maintain his men.
Shaktipoda Tripura, president of Headmen Association, said they get only Tk 400 per head as honorarium a month.
The Karbaris are the most sufferers as they do not get honorarium neither from the government nor the king for the important role they play in maintaining order in the Mong societies through conducting local arbitrations, they said.
The Chittagong Hill Tracts is divided into three circles --- Bomang, Chakma and Mong --- centring Bandarban, Rangamati and Khagrachhari.
A king traditionally rules each circle since the British regime.
(L-R) Paila Prue Chowdhury,

Visiting Bandarban and Rangamati



As far as tourism goes, has been one of Bangladesh 's best-kept secrets.
The city Hilltracts with all their ethnic diversity and natural beauty have through the decades captured the imagination of tourists and travelers alike. The lure of lush green hilliforests, bordering Myanmar. The soft slopping hills and anthropological appeal of ethnic varieties have in the past, as the logistic facilities were poor. Most commonly Rangamati, arguably one of the most desire tourist's sites in Bangladesh has developed tourism to some extents. The breath trekking landscape has a pleasant climate being its main attraction. At the same time the concept of tourism has evolved over the years.
The Guide Tours Ltd. is a renowned tour operator in Bangladesh which has set some exclusive ventures. The Tracts City of Bandarban is naturally equipped and flourishes itself, as hilly resorts where tourists are feel homely. Its flora and fauna, bamboo cottages of its ethnic peoples and their life styles, every day struggle have made this hilly site a picturesque natural hub where the community is safe and sound.
Some leading tour operators have come to realize that their guests want more out of their trips other then scenic beauty regarding the factors kept in there mind is to motivate the tourist in a different manner. The Guide Tour Ltd. is in building the "Hillside Resort" just 4 k.m. away from Bandarban town on Chimbuk road. Tourist can have a good access to a wider variety of activities them ever before including hilltekking to remote tribal villages, bird watching, enjoying waterfall in a daytrips and a better chance of interacting with and array of ethnic culture in the surrounding areas. The "Hillside Resorts" designed to fulfill tourist comfort and relaxation with due luxurious accommodation, namely Marma, Dhanash, Mayna, Bawm, Tuntony, Tong and etc. It is entirely based on tribal architectures having blending its hilly atmosphere which one all the way down to the banks of the river "SANGU". The tourist can appease their culinary desires at the restaurant the "Regrre Khyang" where the visitors enjoy both local and continental cuisine and other facilities. The price range of food is also reasonable.
The tourists who is thrilled and having a long lasting desire to make a visit in Bandarban can enjoy and share an under feeling opportunities to roam. Its landscape and ethnic groups namely Marma, Tripura, Bawm.
Their lifestyles could recall the human instinct of different diversity of life where a tourist from plain area can oversee the differences of various sides of human communities. Anyone from Dhaka or other parts of Bangladesh can tour in the Hill Tracts going through Chittagong first by air, train or by bus. He/ she will take two hours drive from Chittagong are available both in the morning and in the evening: the inter-city trains from Dhaka taking almost 6 hours one way.
The luxurious public a/c coaches plying between Dhaka and Chittagong and taking almost 6 hours. Overnight direct bus services to Dhaka -Bandarban also available leave late in the evening and arriving Bandarban in the early morning.
The winter (Nov-Feb) is the ideal time for tourism in the Hill Tracts is very ecofreindly to the visitors. In this period tourists with warm clothes feel free to move in and around the hilly region without the menace of leeches, fewer insects and mosquitoes minimizes the threat of Malaria. Hillside trekking in Bandarban is not so easy for less physically sound visitors. Dissertation of mental strength, physical capabilities and financial abilities are essential to take part in several events of activities in hillside trips.
Those who have planned to trek to the river could reach led from Bandarban town and SANGU River on walking about 2 hours time. The entire walk is a soft down hill descent and will pose no particular problem. Tourists who are interested can surely go for a refreshing swim in the river. It got strong current in the monsoons due to rainfall but in the winter its clam and convenient. Uphill climb of one and half-hours may become too physically excreting. Even tourists can take a boat trip to go down Bandarban down stream. Visitors of some ethnic villages can gave a positive impression and tour to watch these villages and lifestyle of ethnic people and their activities these villages are in out shirks of Bandarban town hardly 1 and half hours walk in the hilly way. To visit Tripura villages there will be some step ascents on this short trip. A good part of the journey will be along a stream.
The village namely "Hatibandha" where Tripura people is living. It is a beautiful village in the laps of the valley. Though the ethnic people living improvidently but they are very hospitable and their village is very clean. Tourists can have at least 2-3 hours to take a complete walk into the village.
Chimbuk is about 25k.m. From Bandarban and one of the highest point in Bangladesh. A four-wheel drive is convenient to reach at the top of Chimbuk. Some one can hire four wheels popularly known as "Chander Gari", this is also the main means of transport for local people. This trip will take 4-6 hours. First it will drive to Chimbuk spending some time on hilltop, then coming down through the slope can enjoy a walk to a Murang village. Most of these villages are a bit away from the main road. Tourists can visit those villages of knowing their activities, culture, history are needed to walk for a while to reach them.
Another exiting event is a full day trip to "Ruma Bazaar" , its about 60k.m south-east from Bandarban and convenient to reach there by hiring Jeep will take 2 hours journey. The scenic beauty is touchy one and tourists are differently like to stop at places. Upon arrival at "Ruma Bazaar" and spending some hours over at "Ruma Bazaar" can journey back to Bandarban on boat. Groups can hire a boat and individuals can avail irregular service boat for this purpose. The journey is regular in between May to November only could enhance some ones thirst for scenic beauty could impressed him/her for the rest of life.
Shailapropat (waterfall) is a popular spot for tourist 8k.m away from Bandarban. It will take 3-4 hours walking time to reach at the waterfall from Bandarban. They walk will involved several ascents and descents along hillside. For physically fit individuals, this trip yet not likely challenging.
The location of "Shailapropat" is set a scenic sight. It is not to dry and anybody may take a swim, taking care to save some energy for the walk back at the same time some one can also choose to visit the Bawm village close by namely "Farukpara". Generally this road is safe and can meet some local passerby.
Those who are interested to visit Bandarban can take a guide who will give company and introducing sights to get this trip a pleasant one tourist are restricted not to buy wild life products. If anyone is interested to take photographs of ethnic people or their villages he/she must seek permission first from them. Finally tourists should take care in every event and avoid anything unpleasant with the ethnic community.

Bangladesh offers ample tourist attractions. The facilities for tourists have also greatly improved compared to even a few years ago. Much of the country has been relatively untouched by modern technology and development, which is why foriegners find the rich flora and fauna and colorful tribal life so enchanting. Some of the better known tourist attractions are: Srimangal (the tea capital), Mainamati, Mahastangarh, Paharpur for archeaology, Rangamati, Kaptai and Cox's Bazar for sight seeing, and the Sundarbans and Foy's Lake for scenic beauty. For management of tourism there is an autonomous body under the government known as the Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation (BPC), BPC has information centres in Dhaka, Chittagong, Rajshahi, Bogra, Cox's bazar and Rangamati. Five package tours ranging from 4 to 5 days are arranged by Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation originating in Dhaka.
Sight seeing and excursions are made available by Parjatan offices at Dhaka, Chittagong and Cox's Bazar.

Rangamati is the centre of the Chittagong Hill Tracts district. The township is located on the western bank of the Kaptai lake. Rangamati is a favourite holiday resort because of its beautiful landscape, Kaptai lake, colourful tribes (Chakma, Marma etc.), its flora and fauna, the tribal museum in Chakma Raja, the hanging bridge, homespun textile products, ivory jewellery and the tribal men and women who fashion them. For tourists the attractions of Rangamati are numerous, tribal life, fishing, speed boat cruising, water skiing, hiking, bathing or merely enjoying nature as it is.

Kaptai Lake: A huge expanse of emarald-blue water surrounded by majestic tropical forests, the lake was formed when the mighty Karnaphuli river was dammed. The country's only hydro-electric station is located here, from where power is distributed to other regions through a national grid line. Two miles away stands an ancient Buddhist temple, Chit Morong, where some fine sculptures are preserved.

Cox’s BazarMiles of golden sands, towering cliffs, sufing waves, rare conch shells, colourful pagodas, buddhist temples and tribes, delightful sea food- this is Cox's Bazar, the tourist capital of Bangladesh. Having the world's longest (75 m./120 km.) unbroken beach sloping gently down to the blue waters of the Bay of Bengal, against the picturesque background of a chain of hills coverd with deep green forests, Cox's Bazar is one of the most attractive tourist spots in the world. The beach is good for bathing, sun bathing and swimming. The beauty of the sun-setting behind the waves of the sea is capivating. Local varieties of cigars and handloom products of the Rakhyne tribal families are good buys. Their unique customs and dress attract many visitors.
Located at a distance of 152 km south of Chittagong, Cox's Bazar is connected both by air and road from Dhaka and Chittagong. Cox's Bazar has a mixed population of people speaking Bengali and Burmese. The settlers from Arakan have established flourishing cottage industries where they weave colourful silk and cotton fabrics. Visits to the fascinating picnic spot at Himchari, Teknaf, at the southern most tip of Bangladesh, the Buddhist temple at Ramu, and nearby islands of Sonadia, St. Martin and Moheshkhali provide a memorable experience. The government has taken initiatives to develop Sonadia as an exclusive beach resort.

Adivasi leaders demand justice for torture, rape, land grabbing:
Financial Review 5/12/2006



Adivasi leaders from Khagrachhari Hill Tracts demanded justice for alleged attacks, rapes and land grabbing by Bengali settlers supported by the army at Saupru Karbari Para under Mohalchhari Upazila on April 3 last.They made the demands through a press conference at the National Press Club in the city Thursday, reports BDNEWS. Legal Aid and Research Association General Secretary Hemanta Tripura read out the written statement. Among others, Adivasi Forum General Secretary Sanjib Drong, Khagrachhari Zilla Headman Association President Shaktipada Tripura, General Secretary Suilapru Chowdhury and Hill Law Graduates' Association President Ashutosh Chakma were present at the press conference. The leaders alleged that Bengali settlers with a view to grab the land owned by Buddha Shishughar Anath Asram and Buddha Bihar attacked local indigenous residents on April 3. The Bengali settlers injured at least 50 indigenous people and raped two women.The indigenous leaders said around seven acres of land of that area were grabbed within a year by Bengali settlers with continuous support from the local civil administration and the army. They claimed that army personnel hired some journalists of both print and electronic media and made them publicise fabricated stories about the occurrence of April 3 to create confusion among the people. The Adivasi leaders demanded return of the lands recently grabbed from the indigenous people of Saupru Karbari Para, Joysen Karbari Para, Gamari Dhala, Nunchhari, Sindukchhari, Bhuachhari, Chempru Para Mouza, Balyachhari, Lemuchhari, Jugalchhari and Bara Panchhari along with other lands grabbed in different areas of Khagrachhari district. They also demanded arrest and trial of the miscreants involved in the attack and rape. They further demanded immediate withdrawal of the false cases filed against the indigenous people by the settlers from Maischhari area under Mohalchhari Upazila on April 3, 2006. The demands also included, compensation to the affected Jummas, a halt all forms of torture, oppression, harassment and filing of false cases by the army, stopping rehabilitation of the Bengali settlers from outside Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) and new migrations, withdrawal of camps of all kind of law enforcers including army from CHT and calling off Operation Uttaran, and rehabilitation of the Jumma refugees returned from India. Punishment to the deputy commissioner (DC) of Khagrachhari, zonal commander of army at Mohalchhari Lieutenant Colonel Shams, sub-zone commander of army at Bigitala, second-in-command of Panchhari zonal army Major Nasim, Captain Salauddin of Patachhara camp, Lieutenant Colonel Ferdous of Sindukchhari zone was also demanded for their alleged communal and anti-peace-treaty activities. They demanded amendment of the Land Commission Law 2001 following the CHT Peace Treaty and cancellation of allocation of land to Bengali settlers that were done violating the Peace Treaty, Hill Tracts Manual and other international laws and declarations.

Submerged Chakma Royal palace resurfaces in B'desh Indo-Asian News ServiceDhaka, May 12, 2006


The royal palace of the Chakma dynasty that ruled Chittagong hill tracts, now in Bangladesh, has resurfaced on the Kaptai lake after its submersion nearly 50 years ago.
Barrister Devashish Roy, the current Chakma Raja who is revered by the Buddhist tribals of the region, has now demanded due government attention for the proper maintenance of the mansion and protection of the Kaptai Lake, which is already a major tourist destination.
The palace went under water when a hydroelectric project was begun on the Kaptai Lake during the Ayub Khan era.
It has become visible because this summer, the surface level of Kaptai Lake has drastically gone down, the Bangladesh Observer reported.
"This ancient stately mansion not only contributed to the enrichment of indigenous peoples' heritage, but the archaeological value of this magnificent structure is also huge for Bangladesh," Roy told the news service BDNews.
He added that 13 ethnic groups have close ties with the mansion. "The folklores, songs, rhymes and fairy tales of hill culture have the echo of this palace."
Groups of people have been thronging this site out of plain curiosity.
According to him, at least 54,000 acres of arable land went under water in 1960 while implementing the Kaptai hydroelectric project.
Around 100,000 people were evicted and the royal mansion went under water at the blink of an eye.
"I was a toddler at that time but my father, the then Raja Tridib Roy, recorded the incident with his 8 mm camera. I watched the event later, again and again," recalled Roy.
Many of the uprooted people reportedly migrated to neighbouring Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram and Tripura in India.
Despite being an area dominated by Buddhist tribals for centuries, the Chittagong hill tracts went to Pakistan under the Radcliff Award that partitioned India in 1947.
The area has witnessed much friction between the Buddhists and successive governments in Dhaka in the last six decades.
Prior to the Chittagong hill tracts peace agreement on December 2, 1997, the indigenous people faced frequent eviction. They are now no longer in majority.
According to the survey of 1798, the palace was situated at Rajanagar of Rangunia in Chittagong.
The remains of that splendid stately mansion and the farmhouse are still there.
Raja Bhuban Mohan Roy constructed this palace at the beginning of the 19th century, which was known for its architectural design.

Brief News : Myanmar




Over the past several weeks, the military junta in Burma, led by the dictator Than Shwe, has launched major attacks on ethnic minorities in eastern Burma, driving 13,000 people from their homes. Humanitarian organizations report that these are the largest attacks in Burma in 10 years, and that they are adding to what was already a humanitarian disaster. Astonishingly, the military junta has destroyed or forced villagers to abandon 2,800 villages in eastern Burma alone in the past 10-12 years. According to the respected refugee organization Refugees International, this has created the largest population flow in Southeast Asia and the most serious internal displacement crisis in all of Asia.

Over the past several weeks, men, women, and children have been shot by the military junta, and others have been captured and tortured. Soldiers of the regime are on an all-out rampage in eastern Burma, burning down rice barns, houses, and entire villages. We have been able to obtain a few, sad pictures of the effects of these attacks.



Recently eleven thousand people have been displaced in the latest actions of the by Burmese Army in the Western and Northern Karen state. At least 11 civilians were killed, some of them viciously mutilated. Villagers have been shot at point blank range in coordinated attacks, and others shot as they fled.

The offensive began last November as the SPDC army increased its presence in the area east of Pyinmana, coinciding with the abrupt move of the capital. It further said that attacks have stepped up in the past weeks and the situation is deteriorating into a severe humanitarian crisis.

Villages have been burned and the livelihoods of the villagers destroyed. The State Peace Development Council’s (SPDC) Army has laid landmines to kill and injure any villager who dares to return.

Thousands are hiding in the jungles, without food, medicine or shelter. Around 2,000 of those in hiding are in areas of Mon Township and continue to be pursued by the SPDC army.

United Jumma International letter to NHRC, India

10th May 2006
Sydney, Australia

To
The Secretary General
National Human Rights Commission
Sardar Patel Bhawan
New Delhi-110001
INDIA

Subject: Strongly condemned on Human Rights Violation and Religious Persecution against the innocent Indigenous Chakma and Mog communities in Mizoram on the Eva of Chakma New Years on 15th April 2006.


Dear Sir,
The United Jumma International (UJI) is concerned about the arbitrary killing to Mr. Gubalya Chakma(47) s/o late Lakhi Chandra Chakma and 6 others seriously injured in indiscrinate firing by the Border Security Force(BSF) personnel led by Commander Mr U.S. Mehta at Bhulanchuri village in Lunglei district of Mizoram near the International Border in the Chittagong Hill Tracts of Bangladesh on 15th April 2006.

On 15th April 2006, an Eva of theWorld Chakma New Year Celebration Day, a Buddhist Monk named Ven. Gyana Tissa Bhikkhu was going to deliver religous sermon to a devotee house. On the way, he met Mr. U.S. Metha, Commander of BSF and his personnel coming from Kojoisuri camp by jeep. When they show him, stoped their jeep and manhandled the Buddhist monk and asked unnecessary question like whether he is Bangladeshi ? ate beef ? and so on. Later on, they tried to pull off his robe. The monk was alone and became helpless and than he shouted for help.When the villagers heard his voice ,they gather to assist their highly respected religous teacher. The villagers had summon the Village Council President(VCP) to justify the unsual behaviour of BSF. Before arrival of the VCP on the spot, another group of BSF personnel came from Kojoisuri camp and started lathi charge, beating, firing upon unarmed innocent Chakmas and Mogs without inquiring the real fact. In that incident, Mr. Gubalya Chakma was spot dead by Security personnel bullet at the belly and forehead. The 6 other namely (1) Mr. Juddo Moni Chakma(25) s/o Brihat Nala Chakma;(2) Bijay Kanti Chakma (23) s/o late Hama Nanda Chakma; (3) Lakhi Kumar Chakma (24) s/o late Juddo Chandra Chakma;(4) Amar Singh Chakma (35) s/o late Sarat Chandra Chakma;(5) Satya Priyo (29) s/o Tarono Mohan Chakma; (6) and Mr Eganya Chakma(51) s/o late Ugurikya Chakma have received life-threatening injuries and later transferred to Lunglei Civil Hospital. On 9th May'2006, Mr Bijay Kanti Chakma has been transfered to Guhati Medical College with serious condition.


The UJI concerned that such arbitrary killing to Mr. Gubalya Chakma an unarmed innocent civilian is a crime under the UN criminal laws, must not be justified any circumstances.

The UJI urged that NHRC to proper investigation and a judicial probe into the incident; to provide free treatment to the injured and compensation of Rs. 10,00,00(ten lakhs) to the next to kin of the deceased, Rs. 3,00,000 (three lakhs) each to the serious injured, Rs. 50,000 (fifty thousands) to the minor injured and take stern action against the Mr. U.S.Mehta and his personnel who involved in the firing.

The UJI also urged stop Religious Persecution and Human Rights abuses against the Indigenous Communities and Religious minorities in India.

Yours Sincerely,

Sd/-
Ven. Pragya Jyoti
President
Sd/-
Bishwa Jit Chakma
General Secretary


CC : 1. Shri Shivraj V. Patel, Minister of Home Affairs, New Delhi.
2. Shri A.R. Antulay, Minister of Minority Affairs, New Delhi.
3. Shri P.R. Kyndiah, Minister of Tribal Affairs and Development of NE Region, New Delhi.
4. Shri H.R. Bhardwaj, Minister of Law and Justice, New Delhi.
5. Shri A. R. Kohli, Governor of Mizoram, Aizawl.
6. Mr. Indra Lal Chakma, President, Young Chakma Association, Kmalanagar.
7. Ven. Sila Priyo Thera, General Secretary, Mizoram Bhikkhu Sangha, Kamalanagar.
8. Mr. Binod Bihari Chakma, President, Mizoram Buddhist Association, Kamalanagar.
9. Chris Sidoti, Human Rights Council of Australia, Sydney.
10. Mr. Stephen Corry, Survival International, London,
11. Katrin Robinson, Amnesty International Australia, Sydney.
12. Chairman, UN Commission on Human Rights, Geneva.

Sources: Asian Centre for Human Rights, New Delhi ; Young Chakma Association, Mizoram ;Mizoram Buddhist Association, Mizoram, India.

United Jumma International Press Statement



Press Statement in protest of Human Rights Violation and Religious Persecution against
the Jumma Nation in the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT), Bangladesh.


On May 7, 2006
In front of the
Prime Minister Residence
Sydney, Australia


United Jumma International (UJI) is a Human Rights Organisation based on Jumma Nation. It is totally non-political and non-profitable organisation. It was established in 2004. The main objects of the organisation is on Humanitarian issues such as Human Rights Violation, Religious persecution, atrocities, killing, rape and discrimination against the Jumma Nation in particular and other ethnic, linguistic and religious minorities in general.

The UJI organised a demonstration in front of John Howard Residence, Prime Minister of Australia in protest of systematic Human Rights Violation and Religious Persecution by the Bangladesh Government against the Jumma Nation in the CHT. The UJI strongly condemned to the Government of Bangladesh for recent communal attacked by Muslim settlers and Islamic Fundamentalists in the CHT.

On 17th of April 2006, Ms Jamuna Tripura (14), d/o Krisna Dayal Karbari from Krisna Dayal Karbaripara, Matiranga Police Station under the Khagrachari Hill District was kidnaped by the Muslim settlers named Abul Kalam (22), s/o unknown and Abdul Hawk, s/o Samya from DP para, Asalong under the Khagrachari District. She was returnee refugee from India and studying class VII standard at the Higher Secondary School, Panchari. Her father along with Nagorik Andolan Samity informed the matter to the Police Station as well as Deputy Commissioner. But, no action yet taken.

On 3rd April 2006, five jumma village (Saprue Karbaripara, Nuapara, Chakrapara, Paisi Mahajanpara and Pathapara) and one orphanage school of Maischari Union under the Khagrachari Hill District in CHT, Bangladesh was attacked, raped, destroyed and looted by the Muslim settlers and Islamic Fundamentalists. As a result, 11 jummas was injured including two girls gang raped. They are admitted in the Khagrachari District Hospital. Mr. Tuku Mani Chakma (30), s/o Asha Purna Chakma from Maischari was chopped on his ear and cheek (photo attached). Later he was transferred to the Chittagong Medical College with serious condition. Ms.Thuimrajai Marma (16), d/o late Mamong Marma and Ms. Kraijaima Marma (20), d/o Chaihla Prue Marma both from Saprue Karbaripara was gang raped (photo attached). Ven. Sumana Mahathera, Director of Bouddha Shishughar Orphanage school was manhandled and beaten up (photo attached). Mr. Sa Prue Marma (65), s/o late Nishi Marma from Saprue Karbaripara was beaten mercilessly on his head (photo attached). Jumma villagers took shelter at the Balipara Primary school (photo attached). About 100 jumma houses including one Orphanage school were exposed, looted and destroyed.

In between 1971-97, fifteen massacres and genocides were perpetrated by Muslim settlers and Islamic Fundamentalists with the direct help of army, Ansar, APBN(Armed Police Battalion) and VDP (Village Defence Party). Since after the CHT Peace Accord in 1997, nine major communal attacked was committed by the Muslim settlers and Islamic Fundamentalists with the help of military and government machineries.

The UJI is concerned on Islamic Terrorist Activities in Bangladesh. Such as training of Islamic terrorists going on in Cox's Bazar and Bandarban; Harqat-ul Jihad from Afghanistan active in Lemuchari, Pahartali; Islamic Terrorists illegal weapon factories at Edgarh and Maheskhali.Islamic Terrorists activities have been also widely documented in Bangladesh by the Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, US Department of State on International Religious Freedom, New York Times, Boston Glove, Hindustan Times, BBC News, CNN News, etc.(35 pages of documents on Terrorists activities in Bangladesh submitted along with Memorandum to John Howard, Prime Minister of Australia). So, the documents is proved that Ms Begum Khaleda Zia is a terrorist Prime Minister in Bangladesh like Bin Ladin in Afghanistan. The Bangladesh National Party (BNP) and her coalition partners all are terrorists and Islamic Fundamentalists.Therefore, Terrorist Prime Minister and her government sponsoring thousands of Muslim settlers, Islamic Fundamentalists and terrorist groups to enter in the CHT from plain districts to cleansing the Jumma Nation from their Homeland. The state sponsored Muslim settlers, Islamic Fundamentalists and Terrrorist groups attacking, burning, arsoning, etc.on the Jumma villages and killing, raping, etc to the innocent jumma peoples in CHT. It is one of the prove that the Terrorist Prime Minister, not willing to implement the Peace Accord which signed in 1997. Instead of implement, the terrorist Prime Minister declared military rule in the named of "Operation Uttaran" in CHT.

I, on behalf of UJI appeals to the International Communities, National and International Human Rights Organisations and the Donor Countries to Bangladesh , etc. that:

• To send UN Peace-Keeping Force in CHT Region as soon as possible in line with Darfur, Sudan;
• Bring to Ms Begum Khaleda Zia in the International Criminal Court for committing genocides, widespread Human Rights Violations, sponsoring, encouraging and supporting Muslim settlers, Islamic Fundamentalists and Terrorist Organisations which is amount to "crime against humanity" against the Jumma Nation in particular in CHT and non-muslim in general ;
• To stop aid and cut off Diplomatic relationship with government of Bangladesh untill Jumma Nation demand meet;
• To rehabilitate Muslim settlers and Islamic Fundamentalists outside the CHT Region with funding from the UN, EU and other multi-lateral financial institutions;
• To ask the Bangladesh Government to demilitarize in the CHT Region and withdraw all "temporary military, para-military camps and de facto military rule 'Operation Uttaran" as per as Peace Accord ;
• To put pressure to " Implement the Peace Accord" fully and properly;
• To ask Bangladesh Government to rehabilitate jumma affected families in the recent communal violence and give proper conpensations; and
• To ask Government of Bangladesh to bring all perpetrators to justice.




Yours Sincerely,

Sd/-
Ven. Pragya Jyoti
President
United Jumma International

United Jumma Internation Memo to John Howard




UNITED JUMMA INTERNATIONAL
P.O. Box. Q470, QVB Post Office,
Sydney, NSW 1230, AUSTRALIA
Tel: 61-2-9518 1541; Mobile: 61-04 1747 3618
E-mail: bhante_international@yahoo.com.au

May 7, 2006,
Sydney, Australia


To
Mr. John Howard
Hon'ble Prime Minister of Australia
Kirribilli House, Kirribilli,
NSW 2061,
AUSTRALIA.


Subject: An Appeal to save the Jumma Nation in the Chittangong Hill Tracts (CHT) of Bangladesh.



Dear Hon'ble Prime Minister,

The United Jumma International (UJI) draw your kind attention that the systematic Human Right Violation against the Indignous Jumma Nation in CHT are continued even after the CHT Peace Accord in 1997.

On 3rd April 2006, five Jumma villages and a Orphanage school under the Maischari Union, Khagrachari Hill District CHT, was attacked by the Bengali Muslim settlers and Islamic Fundamentalists with full backing by the Bangladesh Army. As a result, 11 jummas was seriously injured, more than 50 minor injured including a Buddhist monk name Ven. Sumana Mahathera, Director of Orphanage School and 2 women were gang ragped by the Islamic Fundamentalists. About 100 Jumma houses were burnt down, looted and destroyed including the Orphanges school.

The CHT is the south-eastern part of Bangladesh, which is the traditional Homeland of the Jumma Nation. Since creation of Pakistan in 14th August 1947,the Pakistani govt. had pursued hostile policy toward the Jumma people. Even after the Independence of Bangladesh in 1971, the same policy been accelerated to eradicate the Jumma people in CHT.

As a part of the said policy of the government of Bangladesh ( GOB) patronized the program to migration of 6-7 millions Bengali Muslim to change the demographic position of Jumma population in CHT. On the otherhand, the GOB set up military installations, Army, para-military and police forces to commit massive atrocities including massacres against the Jumma people.

Since 1971, the government lauched undeclared war against the Jumma people for their total extermination. As a consequence to it, approximately 35,000 jummas lost their life; 500, 000 jummas were internally displace and 80,000 jummas were compelled to take refugee in Tripura and Mizoram states in India. With an aim to uproot
the Jumma people from their ancestral land, a long series of massacres and genocide were perpetrated by the Bengali Muslim settlers with the direct help of army, Ansar, APBN (Armed Police Battalion) and VDP(Village Defense Party). As such it left a horrible legacy of violence, rape loot, murder, arson, abduction, religious persecution, and forcible occupation of jumma land and property as well as gross violation of human rights for more than two decades.

As per as reports, since 1971-97, more than 15 massacres and 10 communal riots had been committed in CHT by the Muslim Settlers with backing of Bangladesh army.

The UJI, aware of the humanitarian aspect of the aid given to Bangladesh by Australia Governmnet's aid plan in which it states; "support is needed to address the issues in CHT with the population of ethnic minorities".

Therefore, We on behalf of UJI would like to appeal you to stop further aid given to Bangladesh government unless the following conditions are meet:-

· Implement the CHT Peace Accord 1997 fully and properly;
· Rehabilitate Muslim settlers and Islamic Fundamentalists outside the CHT Region as per as Peace Accord;
· Demilitarize in the CHT Region and withdrawl all "temporary para-military camps" and de facto military rule ' Operation Uttaran', as per as Peace Accord;
· Rehabilitate all Jumma returnee refugees according to Peace Agreement.
· Rehabilitate the Jumma affected families in the recent communal attacked and give proper conpensations; and
· Government of Bangladesh should bring all perpetrators to Juslice.


Yours Sincerely,


Sd/-
(Ven. Pragya Jyoti)
President



Sd/-
(Mr. Bishwa Jit Chakma)
General Secretary


CC:
1. Ambassador, Embassy of USA, Australia.
2. High Commissioner, British High Commission, Australia.
3. Ambassador, Embassy of Switzerland, Australia.
4. High Commissioner, New Zealand High Commission, Australia.
5. Ambassador, Embassy of The Netherland, Australia.
6. Ambassador, Embassy of Japan, Australia.
7. Ambassador, Embassy of France, Australia.
8. High Commissioner, High Commission of Canada, Australia.
9. Chairman, Australia Human Rights Council, Australia.




Sources: www.pcjss.org
www.angelfire.com/ab/jumma/
www.ohchr.org
www.jpnuk.org.uk
www.hrwuk.org
www.survival-international.org
Peace Campaign Group, India
Parbatya Bhikkhu Sangha, Bangladesh
www.ausaid.gov.au