Right to identify as 'indigenous' cannot be denied: Iftekharuzzaman

Stating that the right to identify oneself as 'indigenous' is a recognised human right, Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) Executive Director Iftekharuzzaman has said that if someone wishes to identify themselves as indigenous, there is no scope to deny that right . He also called for a time-bound roadmap for the implementation of the 1997 Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) Accord to establish sustainable peace in the CHT.

He made these remarks at a discussion titled 'Five Months of BNP-led Government: Our Observations on the Progress of CHT Accord Implementation' organised by the Chittagong Hill Tracts Accord Implementation Movement at the National Press Club on Wednesday (July 29) .

Iftekharuzzaman said the establishment of sustainable peace in the CHT is not only about the rights of the hill people or a regional problem; it is directly related to Bangladesh's democracy, equal rights and national peace. According to him, without peace in the hill tracts, the full establishment of democratic rights and sustainable peace in the country is not possible .

He said the CHT Accord is a continuation of the commitment to democracy, equality, social justice and equal rights in the spirit of the 1971 Liberation War. Therefore, political will and a time-bound action plan are needed for the implementation of the accord .

The TIB executive director also commented that although the BNP's election manifesto included issues of peace in the hill tracts, recognition of diversity of identity and equal rights, questions have arisen over the absence of the word 'indigenous' .

Regarding the resolution of the long-standing conflict in the CHT, he said it is not just about security measures but also about overcoming the crisis of trust. Initiatives for social reconstruction and establishing peace by involving all parties are needed. In this regard, he suggested that the experience of the Bangladesh Army in international peacekeeping missions could be utilised .

The discussion also demanded the appointment of a full minister from the hill community at the Ministry of CHT Affairs, formulation of a time-bound action plan for the implementation of the accord, reconstitution of the implementation and monitoring committee, effective functioning of the Land Dispute Resolution Commission, and the start of regular dialogue between the government and the Regional Council .