Dialogue key to resolving CHT land disputes

Speakers at a seminar yesterday said talks should continue between the government and the indigenous community in the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) to solve the land related disputes.

They also stressed the need for formulating rules for the CHT Land Dispute Resolution Commission, CHT Regional Council and three CHT district councils so that the bodies can function properly. 

Bangladesh Institute of International and Strategic Studies (BIISS) organised the seminar on its premises in the capital yesterday.

Speaking at the meeting, Prof Dr Syed Anwar Husain, a historian, said sincerity is needed to solve the everlasting land disputes in the hill tracts.

“Dialogue is the key to solving any crisis… so, it must continue,” the historian said, adding, proper planning is needed along with sincerity to solve the crisis.

He also urged the government to form a special committee to tackle the situation.

Prof Mesbah Kamal of Dhaka University also expressed dissatisfaction over the government's failure to formulate rules for CHT land commissions. 

Law Minister Anisul Huq said a total of 48 sections out of 72 of the CHT Peace Accord, which was signed in December 1997, have been implemented.

He said the rules for the land commission in CHT, regional council and three district councils will be formulated soon.

“Development is not possible leaving any community behind…,” he added.

GOC 2 Infantry Division of CHT Cantonment Major General Md Jahangir Kabir Talukder also attended the seminar.