Home Adviser Lt Gen (Retd) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury said on Thursday that the government would take tougher actions to curb extortion and terrorist activities in the hilly areas.
He said: “Extortionists will be dealt with firmly. The root cause of the issues in the Chittagong Hill Tracts is extortion. To put an end to this, everyone must come forward and take responsibility.”
The adviser made these remarks on Thursday afternoon during a press briefing at the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) Sector Headquarters in Rangamati, following his visit to the Sajek tourist area and the Sajek Border Outpost (BOP) of the 27th BGB Battalion.
The adviser further informed that the government is taking initiatives to curb the illegal use of weapons in the hills.
He noted that all illicit arms, whether in the hills or the plains, will be recovered.
He said: “Several weapons went missing from police stations after August 5 and they have not yet been recovered. Once these weapons are retrieved, the situation will be brought under control.”
Additionally, the home affairs adviser mentioned that the adviser on Hill Tract Affairs is working towards the development of the region.
He observed that the current development efforts are primarily city-centric.
He said: “We are striving to improve the living standards of the people. The allocated funds should reach the impoverished so that they can create sustainable sources of income.”
Regarding rumors circulated by Indian media about the Tripura state government’s alleged intentions to occupy the Chittagong Hill Tracts, the adviser said: “Indian media excels in spreading rumors. Their primary focus now seems to be rumor-mongering."
He urged that domestic media should exercise caution and ensure the dissemination of accurate information to the public.
