CHT experiences the longest strike of the year

As soon as the 48 hours transport strike in the three Hill Districts of CHT ends yesterday another 72 hours general strike clamps in the region making it the longest strike in record. The first 48 hours transport strike was called by the Bangladesh Road and Transport Workers Association in protest against the killing of Ataur Rahaman, a truck driver who was killed by unknown miscreant at Ramhgar in the last July. The killing of Ataur Rehaman also created ethnic tension in the region that caused to burning of at least 270 indigenous tribal peoples' houses as a backlash of the incident. The transport strike was reported to end peacefully yesterday evening (Monday). But a prefixed 48 hours general strike called by the JSS clamped in the region again from Tuesday morning.

From the JSS sources it has been reported that the strike was called as a part of its programme to fulfil its demand for a fresh electoral list with the permanent residents of CHT, full implementation of CHT peace accord and revision of Land Commission Bill in accordance with CHT peace accord etc. The sources also mentioned that similar programme will be intensified in the days ahead to create more pressure upon the government for its failure to implement the accord.

On the other hand the Bangali Kalyan Parishad (Bengali Welfare Association) a Bengali Organization active in CHT also called a 24 hours general strike as soon as the strike called by the JSS is over. They are demanding for revocation of CHT Regional Council, trying of Santu Larma for allegedly killing of Bengalis during insurgency days, freeing of their leader Rezaul Karim who is under arrest etc.

Note: The above news is abridged from the news of Bengali daily "Prothom-alo" and collection of information from JSS sources etc.