Agartala: Several indigenous organisations and student groups of Tripura on Saturday launched a peaceful protest against the violent attacks and killings of people belonging to indigenous communities in the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) of Bangladesh.
The protesters demanded immediate action by the authorities to ensure safety and security of the minorities in the neighbouring country.
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The Youth Tipra Federation – the youth wing of Tipra Motha Party – along with Buddhist monks, Tripura Chakma Students Association, Society for the Welfare of Mog Students, besides the concerned citizens, took out peaceful protest rallies in the state’s capital Agartala.
The protestors also staged a remarkable demonstration in front of the Bangladesh Assistant High Commissioner’s office.
Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the protests, President of Youth Tipra Federation Suraj Debbarma expressed deep concern over the prevailing situation in Bangladesh.
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“During the Bangladesh Liberation War, Tripura along with the Indian government extended significant support. However, today, the minority communities in Bangladesh, including the Bengalis, Tiprasas, Garos, Mizos, and Chakmas are facing brutal attacks,” he said.
Debbarma said that various organisations are holding peaceful protests demanding safety and security of the minority communities in Bangladesh.
“We are protesting peacefully in front of the Assistant High Commissioner’s office demanding safety and security of the minority communities in Bangladesh. Many innocent people have been killed, and their homes torched, leaving behind a poignant tale of loss and shattered dreams,” Debbarma lamented.
“We seek peace in Bangladesh and call for an immediate end to the ongoing violence. Tripura supported Bangladesh during its trying times, and now we urge for peace and tranquillity, and justice for all the victims,” he added.
Buddhist monks from the Venuvan Vihar Buddha Temple also joined the protests expressing solidarity. One among them emphasised the severity of the attacks, particularly the vandalism of the Buddhist monasteries.
“This peaceful march today is to condemn the ongoing violence in Bangladesh, where the minorities have been facing brutal attacks. We demand justice and protection of all minority communities there,” he added.
Amitabh Chakma – representing the Tripura Chakma Students Association – made an appeal to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to intervene.
“This rally is against the ongoing discrimination and atrocities targeting the minority Buddhists and Hindus in Bangladesh. Over 70 indigenous tribal people have lost their lives in the gruesome attacks. We urge PM Modi to step in and help stop this persecution,” Chakma said.
“The situation has become unbearable with the minorities being forced to vacate their homes and flee to safety. Our message is clear – this injustice cannot continue,” he warned.