Rangamati, Mar 23 (V7N) – The Media Reform Commission's recent recommendation to use the term "indigenous" when referring to the people of the Chittagong Hill Tracts has ignited a strong backlash in the region.

The controversy stems from the commission's report, submitted to the Chief Adviser Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus on Saturday, March 22, which uses the term "indigenous" in several places. This usage contradicts the Bangladeshi government's official stance, which, since 2005, has consistently directed against referring to the tribal populations of Bangladesh as "indigenous."

A 2022 directive from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting explicitly states that the Fifteenth Amendment to the Constitution of Bangladesh defines these communities as "tribes/small ethnic groups/ethnic groups," and instructs media outlets to adhere to this terminology.

Despite these official directives, the Media Reform Commission's report includes recommendations such as:

  • "Recommendations on creating equal opportunities for indigenous people and people with disabilities in the media..."
  • "Including the issue of ensuring the language, culture and freedom of expression of indigenous communities in the media policy..."
  • "Setting a minimum broadcasting time for indigenous people in the media..."
  • "Prioritizing the presentation of news and programs in indigenous languages ​​in media outlets publishing/broadcasting in indigenous-populated areas..."
  • "Including ‘Indigenous Studies’ in journalism education and training..."

Kamal Ahmed, head of the Media Reform Commission, defended the use of the term, stating that it was a result of discussions and aligned with international laws. However, he did not provide specific international laws that Bangladesh has signed, upon request.

The Parbatya Chattogram Chhatra Parishad (PCCP) has strongly condemned the report's recommendations, calling them a "conspiracy" against the constitution, national interests, and sovereignty of Bangladesh. They emphasized that Article 23(a) of the Constitution refers to these communities as "small ethnic groups" or "tribes," not "indigenous."

"The report submitted by the head of the Media Reform Commission, Kamal Ahmed, has recommended the inclusion of the word "indigenous" in the media policy, which is directly against the constitution, national interests and sovereignty of Bangladesh," a PCCP spokesperson said.

The PCCP has demanded that the interim government reject the recommendation and take legal action against those spreading "anti-state propaganda." They have also threatened a "strong movement" if their demands are not met.

Senior lawyer Advocate Mokhtar Ahmed also stated that the use of the term "indigenous" is unconstitutional and contradicts government directives.

The controversy highlights the ongoing debate surrounding the terminology used to refer to the tribal populations of the Chittagong Hill Tracts, and the significant political and social implications of this language.

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