Dhaka : Amid escalating violence and growing tensions between ethnic minority communities and Bengali settlers, Bangladesh has imposed a travel ban on three key hill districts—Rangamati, Khagrachhari, and Bandarban. These picturesque areas, known for their natural beauty and cultural diversity, have been gripped by unrest, leading to the deaths of five individuals and injuries to many others.
The temporary travel ban, effective from October 8 to October 31, was enforced following clashes triggered by the killing of a Bengali youth in Khagrachhari. The resulting tensions prompted tribal groups to launch a temporary blockade, forcing authorities to enhance security across the region. Tourists have been asked to avoid the Chattogram Hill Tracts, an area that draws many visitors each year.
Local authorities are working closely with security forces to prevent further escalation. The interim government has expressed a zero-tolerance policy towards any incitement to violence, vowing to investigate the situation thoroughly. A high-level committee has been formed to examine the root causes of the conflict, particularly in light of the 1997 peace deal that sought to end long-standing insurgencies in the region. However, sporadic flare-ups of violence continue to challenge stability in the area.
This unrest has also impacted local cultural traditions. A key Buddhist festival, Kaathin Chibor Dan, which was slated for mid-October, has been postponed due to security concerns. The situation remains fragile, with authorities urging caution as they work to restore calm.
Tourists and locals alike hope for a peaceful resolution to these ongoing sectarian tensions in a region that holds both cultural significance and natural allure. (with inputs from agencies)