Sarjis apologizes for remarks on Bandarban

Chief Organizer of Jatiya Nagorik Party (NCP) for northern region, Sarjis Alam, has issued a public apology over his recent remarks concerning Bandarban, which drew widespread criticism.

On Sunday (July 20), Sarjis expressed regret through a post on his verified Facebook page, saying, “From Rangamati — the land of struggle, beauty, and harmony — we vow in this July march to fight for the rights and dignity of all communities. I sincerely apologize for the unintended wording in a previous comment about Bandarban.”

The apology comes after strong backlash to his earlier statement: “It is our responsibility to send corrupt officials to Bandarban,” which many considered derogatory and disrespectful to the region and its people.

In response, 'Chhatra Samaj' of Bandarban demanded a public apology and warned that all NCP activities in the district would be declared “completely unwelcome” if their call is ignored.

At a press conference held Sunday morning at the Bandarban Press Club, representatives of various student groups, including the Parbatya Chattogram Chhatra Parishad and anti-discrimination student activists, condemned the remark.

Asif Iqbal, President of the Chhatra Parishad’s Bandarban chapter, stated: “Government officials transferred to Bandarban as punishment must be recalled immediately. The practice of treating the region as a dumping ground for so-called ‘corrupt’ or ‘problematic’ officers must end.”

He further urged the government to take effective steps to prevent the portrayal of the Chittagong Hill Tracts as a ‘dangerous’ or ‘undesirable’ place, emphasizing the need for respect and equal treatment of all communities in the area.