ASK expresses its grave concern over the attack on the motorcade of Santu Larma, President of Parbatya Chattagram Jana Samhati Samiti (PCJSS).

It has been reported by the media, an organization named ‘Jago Parbottyobashi’ called strike from 11 to 13 March 2015 in Bandarban. Santu Larma was scheduled to join a conference organized by the Pahari Chhatra Parishad (PCP) on 13 March 2015.

According to eye witnesses, on 11 March 2015, Wednesday at around 11:30 in the morning while crossing Balighata area in the town, Strike supporters smashed one of the jeeps of Larma’motorcade and carried out an attack upon the PCJSS Activists. Upon having such a massive attack, at least nine activists were injured and five of them got admitted to Bandarban Sadar Hospital. Among them an activist named Pushoithoai’s condition is very critical, according to the Bandarban hospital authority.

ASK is deeply concerned regarding the calling of Strike with an intention to impede Santu Larma’s program and attack held on his motorcade. Despite extensive presence of law enforcing agencies in the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) area, such frequent attacks mainly upon the indigenous people are raising questions on the impartiality of law enforcing agencies.

According to the latest news, Jago Parrbottyabashi has withdrawn their strike. We urge the government to take immediate steps to ensure impartial investigation with an aim to bring the perpetrators under legal action.