The Sajek Crisis: Who Holds Authority in the Hills?

To view the recent crisis in Sajek merely as unrest at a tourist destination would obscure its deeper significance. At its heart lie questions of public safety, an effective state presence and government accountability. Evacuating tourists was necessary, but the state’s responsibility does not end when an evacuation is complete. Its greatest test now is ensuring the everyday security of those who call Sajek home.

Farmers must be able to reach their fields, traders to open their shops and children to attend school without seeking permission from an armed group. Neither political demands nor competition for influence can justify holding people’s lives and livelihoods hostage. The practical meaning of state authority is that every citizen can exercise their rights free from fear and coercion.

Conflicting accounts of the clashes and reported gunfire in Sajek make an impartial, credible and time-bound investigation essential. Decisions should rest on evidence rather than assumptions or a single account. Investigators must examine testimony and evidence from residents, eyewitnesses, security personnel and the organisations concerned, and make their findings public. Those responsible for violence must face legal proceedings, while the right to peaceful protest must remain protected.

The government’s priorities should therefore be clear: restore safe movement and livelihoods; complete an impartial investigation; act without favour against armed crime; identify the sources of weapons and financing; and demonstrate measurable progress in implementing the Peace Accord. These tasks require clear institutional responsibilities and regular public reporting.

Allegations of foreign involvement require the same commitment to evidence. Credible findings that implicate any Indian individual or institution, or any other foreign actor, should prompt appropriate legal and diplomatic action. Proximity to a border or the circulation of allegations cannot substitute for proof. Even while protecting sensitive national security information, the government can keep the public reasonably informed about the progress of investigations and the measures taken.

Meanwhile, implementation of the 1997 Chittagong Hill Tracts Peace Accord, resolution of land disputes and protection of local political and cultural rights must advance. In areas where security camps have been withdrawn, the government should assess whether effective policing, civilian administration and access to justice have been established. A state presence becomes meaningful when people receive justice and public services alongside protection.

The army and police deserve recognition for helping evacuate tourists safely. Every security operation must also safeguard innocent lives, rights and dignity. Criminal responsibility rests with individuals and must never be assigned to an entire community. Equally, political or organisational affiliation cannot place anyone above the law.

The government’s priorities should therefore be clear: restore safe movement and livelihoods; complete an impartial investigation; act without favour against armed crime; identify the sources of weapons and financing; and demonstrate measurable progress in implementing the Peace Accord. These tasks require clear institutional responsibilities and regular public reporting.

Bangladesh’s relationship with India should advance on the basis of mutual respect and sovereign equality. That relationship must allow both countries to raise security concerns, exchange relevant information and seek explanations when warranted.

The lasting resolution of the Sajek crisis will be measured by the safety and dignity of all residents, both hill communities and Bengalis. Peace will acquire a firm foundation when people can live securely in their homes, work their land and travel without fear. The most credible expression of state authority will be its ability to guarantee that security, justice and protection of rights.

The writer is an author, researcher and analyst specialising in geopolitics and security affairs.