Tribals in Bangladesh launch protest against Yunus-led interim regime

Anti-discrimination Hill student’s movement consisting of tribal students recently held a protest rally in Bangladesh which was addressed by their senior leaders — Vikas Tripura, Ripul Chakma and Mangsai Marma.

Anti-Discrimination Hill Student’s Movement put forward a 8-point charter of demands to the Interim Government on behalf of tribal students — 5% tribal quota should be maintained in all grades including 1st and 2nd class government jobs in Bangladesh for tribals; Tribals should be given constitutional autonomy and NCTB textbooks should also include chapter on history and cultural of tribals of CHTs.

As per provisions of CHT Accord, elections for Hill district council should be held after upgrading the voter list. Moreover, Zilla Parishad chairmen and members should be investigated for corruption and appropriate legal action should be taken against them; The ownership of land of tribals should be resolved as per the CHT Accord and necessary steps should be taken to uphold the 1900 Act Regulations.

Rule of law should be established for creating a democratic environment in the three hill districts to establish permanent peace in the region and Recruitment in Sports bodies in CHTs should be done from among the tribals.

In educational institutions in CHTs, teachers should be appointed by ensuring the education system of tribals in their own mother tongue and Use of CHTs as punishment zones for public and private officials should be stopped.