Home Affairs Adviser Lt Gen (retd) Jahangir Alam Chowdhury has alleged that a vested quarter is trying to create unrest in Khagrachhari with instigation from the neighbouring country or fascist elements.
He made the remarks while speaking to journalists after attending a plaque unveiling ceremony at the Old Ramna Police Station premises in the capital on Monday. Newly constructed buildings of Adabor, Kadamtali, Bhashantek, Ramna and Rampura police stations were inaugurated at the event.
The adviser said that the government has taken all necessary measures to ensure the peaceful celebration of Durga Puja, the biggest festival of the Hindu community in the country. “However, a quarter is trying to disrupt this festival,” he noted.
Blaming the neighbouring country or fascist groups for fuelling the ongoing situation in Khagrachhari, Jahangir Alam Chowdhury said, “We are taking maximum precautionary measures.”
He informed that the adviser to the Ministry of Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs was already on the ground, holding discussions with law enforcement agencies and local leaders. “The situation is now under control,” he added.
The home affairs adviser further said that some armed groups had been firing from hilltops, adding that such weapons often come from abroad. He also confirmed that most of the stranded tourists in Khagrachhari had already been brought back safely.
The district has been tense following the rape of an indigenous teenage girl, which sparked protests and violence. On Sunday, three people were killed in firing incidents in Guimara upazila, while at least 20 others, including 13 army personnel and three policemen, were injured.
An indefinite blockade enforced by Jumma student and citizen groups is underway in three hill districts, demanding the arrest and trial of all accused in the rape case, among other eight-point demands.
Section 144, imposed by the local administration, remains in force.
FP/MI
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