Speakers at a discussion meeting on Monday stressed the need for balanced and fact-based talks on the Chattogram Hill Tracts (CHT), warning that misinformation and extremist activities could threaten regional stability and harm Bangladesh's image abroad.
The discussion 'Chattogram Hill Tracts: Contemporary Reality, Challenges and Future', was organised by the CHT Student Policy Forum at the National Press Club.
The speakers said the CHT situation still remains complex despite the signing of the peace accord, calling for a careful analysis of the security, political and social issues.
Addressing the discussion as the chief guest, former Judge Md Faruk said some legal and administrative issues in the CHT are continuing to create debate and dissatisfaction among different communities living in the region. He also alleged that armed groups and extortion activities are affecting peace and development in the hills and called for a stronger action to ensure stability.
As the special guest Brigadier General (retd) Abdullah Al Yusuf said the government has implemented various development projects in the hilly districts, including road construction, healthcare, educational support and tourism development. These initiatives have improved the living standards of many people in remote areas, he added.
Speakers also raised objections about the spread of misleading information on social media regarding human rights, indigenous identity and security issues in the CHT.
They stressed the importance of responsible journalism, research-based reporting and balanced presentation of sensitive issues.
Organisers presented a set of recommendations, including reviewing the CHT Peace Accord, ensuring equal rights for all communities in the region, strengthening action against armed groups and extortion and increasing government monitoring of foreign-funded organisations operating in the hills.
Among others, former ambassador Sakib Ali, former Col. (retd) Hasinur Rahman, Dhaka Reporters' Unity President Abu Saleh Akon and Prof. Abdul Latif Masum also spoke at the discussion meeting.
