Jumma Chhatra Janata call off blockade in Khagrachhari

The Jumma Chhatra Janata organisation in Bangladesh’s Khagrachhari district has permanently withdrawn its blockade over the alleged rape of Marma schoolgirl.

The decision was announced through an official statement on the group’s social media page on Saturday (October 4).

Earlier on September 30, the organisation has suspended the road blockade in Khagrachhari till October 5.

The organisation said the move followed religious rites for victims, humanitarian assistance for the injured, and partial assurances from local authorities. Earlier, a second round of talks on October 1 with the district council chairman, deputy commissioner, police superintendent, and security agencies saw the group table an eight-point demand, including repeal of Section 144 restrictions and justice for recent killings.

Authorities promised to consider the demands and confirmed cash assistance of 50,000 taka for families of the deceased. The group warned, however, that failure to implement the demands swiftly would trigger tougher, indefinite protests.

Meanwhile, police confirmed a case against 70–80 unidentified individuals over the vandalism of a shop belonging to the father of an accused in a rape case. Section 144 remains in effect but is being eased during daytime hours.