UPDF rally vows to 'protect' indigenous people's rights

The United Peoples Democratic Front (UPDF), a forum of indigenous people opposed to the CHT peace accord, held a ‘grand rally' in Khagrachhari town yesterday with a vow to realise its demands.

The demands include what it called an end to rehabilitation of Bangalees by evicting indigenous people and alleged grabbing by vested quarters, protection of their land rights, withdrawal army from the CHT (Chittagong Hill Tracts) and release of their 14 leaders and activists.

The rally held at Swanirvor Bazar was presided over by UPDF central leader Animesh Chakma.

Talking to The Daily Star after the rally, Animesh alleged that several hundreds activists and supporters of UPDF from Panchhari, Lakhmichhari, Manikchhari, Kutukchhari, Guimara and Dighinala could not attend the rally because PCJSS men created obstructions on their way.