The region has been the site of violent ethnic conflict for decades, which has displaced tens of thousands of indigenous people. Activists say the government has failed to honour an agreement signed 20 years ago to restore their lands in the Chittagong Hill Tracts, which were declared a protected area under colonial rule. Following an armed conflict, the Bangladesh government agreed to the Chittagong Hill Tracts peace accord in December 1997 that promised a measure of autonomy to the Pahari people, and gave them economic, social and political rights. Displaced Paharis were to be rehabilitated with land and housing, and a land commission was to resolve land disputes. Amnesty International has called for the government to respect the rights of the Pahari people, including over their land and ensure the land commission functions with the participation of the community.

Source: Dhaka Tribune September 18, 2017 13:52 UTC