Bangladesh September 20, 2024 – In a disturbing incident yesterday, indigenous minorities in the Chittagong Hill Tracts of Bangladesh were attacked by alleged Islamist settlers. According to reports, homes, shops, and forests in the Dighinala region of Khagrachari District were set ablaze around 6 p.m. local time, leaving nearly 1000 Buddhist Chakma and Hindu Tripura families displaced. Three deaths have been confirmed by sources, though social media claims the toll may exceed 50, including victims Junan Chakma and Rubel Tripura.
The violence reportedly erupted after a Bangladeshi Muslim attempted to steal a two-wheeler vehicle from a Chakma village on September 18. Following a chase, the accused had an accident and later succumbed to his injuries in a hospital. This incident is believed to have ignited the unrest, leading to widespread arson and violence.
Eyewitnesses claim the Bangladeshi army, stationed nearby at the Dighinala Cantonment, did not intervene during the attacks. Allegations have surfaced that the army may have supported the attackers instead of protecting the indigenous communities.
As of now, more than 100 homes and businesses have been destroyed, and there are ongoing reports of gunfire. The Dighinala Buddha Mandir was also reportedly desecrated and set on fire. The situation remains tense, with locals accusing the army of targeting indigenous people rather than quelling the violence.
The unrest follows a protest organized by Islamist settlers on September 19, demanding justice for Mamun, a notorious criminal who had died after being beaten for allegedly attempting to steal a motorcycle.
