ISPR Issues Statement On Violence In Khagrachhari

ISPR Issues Statement On Violence In Khagrachhari And Guimara

The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) has issued a statement addressing the recent wave of violence and unrest in Khagrachhari and Guimara upazilas.

In a statement released on Sunday night (28 September), ISPR alleged that the United People's Democratic Front (UPDF) and its affiliated organizations are deliberately attempting to destabilize the Chittagong Hill Tracts through a coordinated plan.

Background Of The Conflict
According to ISPR, the tension dates back to 19 September 2024, when a motorcycle driver named Mamun was murdered in Khagrachhari. Following the incident, UPDF allegedly tried to incite communal unrest in Dighinala and Rangamati. Clashes with security forces at the time left three people dead and several injured. On the first anniversary of the incident this year, UPDF organized protest rallies in various parts of the Hill Tracts to reignite tensions.

Recent Violence And Escalation
On 23 September 2025, a rape allegation emerged in the Singinala area of Khagrachhari involving a schoolgirl. The suspected perpetrator, Shayon Shil, reportedly linked to UPDF, was arrested by the army the following day and later placed in police remand.

Although legal proceedings were ongoing, the Pahari Chhatra Parishad (PCP) — a UPDF-affiliated student group — called for protests and human chains under the banner of "Jumma Student Masses." This led to a half-day hartal on 25 September, and alleged anti-Bengali propaganda spread online by both local and foreign bloggers, escalating tensions further.

On 26 September, under the leadership of Ukhyanu Marma, violent protests erupted across Khagrachhari. Stones were thrown at army patrols, injuring three soldiers. The army, however, showed restraint and refrained from using force.

Attempted Riots And Armed Attacks
On 27 September, UPDF members allegedly attempted to incite riots again in the Khagrachhari municipality area, attacking civilians, ambulances, and blocking roads. The situation took on communal overtones between hill residents and Bengali settlers. Authorities imposed Section 144 in both Khagrachhari and Guimara, and joint forces, including the army and BGB, managed to bring the situation under control by nightfall.

On 28 September, UPDF activists defied Section 144 and erected blockades in Ramsu Bazar, Guimara. Around 10:30 AM, clashes broke out between UPDF members and Bengali residents. UPDF members reportedly used homemade weapons, slingshots, and bricks to attack army personnel, injuring three officers and 10 soldiers. BGB vehicles were also attacked and damaged in Ramgarh.

By 11:30 AM, armed UPDF militants allegedly opened fire from the surrounding hills, firing an estimated 100–150 rounds, injuring both civilians and military personnel. In response, the army launched a swift counter-operation, causing the militants to retreat. Meanwhile, UPDF outsiders reportedly set fire to houses and engaged in further clashes. The situation was brought under control by 4:30 PM after the deployment of additional forces.

Allegations Of A Broader Conspiracy
ISPR claims that UPDF is forcing women and schoolchildren to take part in subversive activities and is smuggling in weapons and external militants into the Hill Tracts. On the afternoon of 28 September, a BGB checkpoint under the Kaptai battalion seized a large cache of homemade weapons from a UPDF vehicle.

ISPR stated that from 19 to 28 September, various incidents were deliberately manipulated to create communal unrest and instability in the region, which appears to be part of a larger conspiracy. Relevant evidence is being preserved by the law enforcement agencies.

ISPR’s Call For Restraint And Unity
In light of the situation, the Bangladesh Army has urged all political parties and ethnic groups in the Hill Tracts to act with restraint. ISPR also appealed to all citizens to support law enforcement and the military in restoring peace and stability in the region.

Despite false propaganda and provocations, ISPR reaffirmed the army's unwavering commitment to protecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Bangladesh. The army stands ready to take all necessary steps to ensure the safety of all communities in the Chittagong Hill Tracts.