Implement rights of indigenous people outlined by UN
Recognition of indigenous people in the constitution can help them get their due rights, said speakers at a rally yesterday.
They also urged the government to implement the United Nations (UN) Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
Bangladesh Indigenous Peoples Forum (BIPF) organised the programme in the capital's Central Shaheed Minar, marking International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples.
At the rally, the forum's President Jyotirindra Bodhipriya Larma alias Shantu Larma urged indigenous youths to come forward spontaneously to strengthen the ongoing movement for protecting the rights of their communities.
Speaking as the chief guest, Civil Aviation Minister Rashed Khan Menon regretted that the Chittagong Hill Tracts Peace Accord is yet to be fully implemented.
Rights activist Khushi Kabir demanded land rights for the indigenous people.
Shaheen Anam, executive director of Manusher Jonno Foundation, said, “We say that Bangladesh is a diversified country. It is you (indigenous people) who add to the diversity of the country.”
The rally placed 10-point demand including observing the day by the State. CPB President Mujahidul Islam Selim, Prof Muhammed Zafar Iqbal, cultural personality Mamunur Rashid, Barrister Sara Hossain, columnist Syed Abul Maksud and Prof Mesbah Kamal of DU, spoke among others.
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