Khagrachari, Sep 27 (V7N) – The administration has imposed Section 144 in Khagrachari Sadar and municipal areas to maintain law and order, effective from 2 pm on Saturday until further notice.

Deputy Commissioner ABM Iftekharul Islam Khondoker confirmed that the order was issued due to the deteriorating law and order situation and concerns over potential harm to life and property.

The move comes after supporters of Jumma Chhatra-Janta staged road blockades across the district, demanding an end to atrocities against women in the hills and the punishment of those involved in a gang rape case of a Marma schoolgirl in the Singinala area. A suspect has been arrested, and the accused is currently on a six-day police remand.

Protests began Wednesday and included half-day road blockades, escalating to full-day demonstrations on Friday. Supporters blocked major points including Chengi Bridge, Chengi Square, and Mahajan Para, and burned tires and tree trunks on regional highways and internal roads.

The blockades stranded around 2,000 tourists in Sajek and another 1,000 in Khagrachari, while night coaches from Dhaka and long-distance vehicles were unable to leave the city. Authorities have deployed the army and police to ensure the safe return of stranded tourists and prevent any untoward incidents.

The movement has also received support from the UPDF-backed Pahari Chhatra Parishad, Hill Women’s Federation, and Democratic Youth Forum, expressing solidarity with the Jumma students and public.

Authorities have warned that the Section 144 order will remain in force until further notice to maintain security and ensure public safety.

END/SMA/AJ