Khagrachhari blockade withdrawn after days of unrest

The Jumma Chhatra-Janata has called off a blockade that had been enforced for four days in Khagrachhari following unrest triggered by the alleged rape of a Marma teenager.

The decision was announced on Saturday in a statement issued by the group’s media cell.

According to the statement, the withdrawal comes "partly in consideration of the religious rites needed to be performed for the martyrs, the need to provide humanitarian assistance to the injured and affected, and assurances given by the administration”.

The group added that on Oct 1, a second round of discussions was held with the Khagrachhari district administration, police, and intelligence officials to address recent violence in Khagrachhari and Guimara.

“In the meeting, we clearly presented our eight-point demand, which included the withdrawal of Section 144 and exemplary punishment for those responsible for the killings. The administration assured us that steps would be taken to implement our demands, and informed us that Tk 50,000 in cash would be provided to the families of the martyrs,” the statement said.