'Set time frame to implement CHT accord'

A time frame for the implementation of Chittagong Hill Tract Peace Accord should be fixed in efforts to resolve the crises of indigenous communities, speakers at a discussion said yesterday.
Addressing the inaugural session of a two-day fair and cultural function arranged in the capital yesterday to mark the International Day of the World's Indigenous People, the discussants also said it's the government's responsibility to recognise the aborigines.
Moderating the opening session Executive Director of Manusher Jonno Foundation Shaheen Anam said, “A time frame should be fixed to implement the CHT accord and the development should be monitored.”
“It's high time to execute the accord,” she added.
Shaheen Anam said the Indigenous People's Day should be celebrated as a special ceremony in the country.
Speaking at the session, National Human Rights Commission Member Nirupa Dewan hoped the CHT treaty would be implemented immediately to resolve the vexed issues of adivasis.
Manusher Jonno Foundation and its associate organisations arranged the fair on the Shishu Academy premises.
A total of 23 adivasi organisations participated in the event. They displayed products used in their daily life. A number of indigenous art works also went on show.
Director of Manusher Jonno Foundation Shamim Imam gave the welcome address.
Human rights activist Sultana Kamal, who also was present on the occasion, said, “First we have to admit that there are indigenous people in the country and we have to give them constitutional recognition.”
Bangladesh Indigenous People's Forum later in the afternoon held a discussion dubbed “Right to Culture and Self-Identity of Indigenous People” at the Bangabandhu International Conference Centre (BICC).
Addressing the programme as chief guest, Law Minister Barrister Shafique said the government is sincere to protect the rights, culture and identity of the indigenous people.
Among others, National Human Rights Commission Chairman Prof Mizanur Rahman, Chakma Circle Chief Raja Devasish Roy, Head of Delegation of the European Commission to Bangladesh Stefan Frowein, Charge d'affaires of Embassy of Denmark to Dhaka Jan Moller Hansen and Acting Country Director of International Labour Organisation Gagan Rajbhandari addressed the programme.