Khagrachhari, Oct 01 (V7N) – A medical board has found no evidence of rape in the case of an indigenous schoolgirl whose alleged assault sparked protests and deadly clashes in the district. The report, submitted late Tuesday evening to Civil Surgeon Dr. Sabber Ahmed and forwarded to the police superintendent’s office, concluded that all 10 clinical indicators examined appeared normal.
 
Dr. Joya Chakma, who led the three-member medical team at Khagrachhari Sadar Hospital, confirmed that a full range of examinations was conducted but no signs of sexual assault were found. Civil Surgeon Ahmed stated that neither injuries nor trauma were detected on the victim’s body.
 
Superintendent of Police Mohammad Arefin Jewel said the findings proved the allegation was fabricated, claiming that a group had intentionally spread false accusations to destabilize the hill district.
 
The allegation, first raised on September 23, triggered widespread protests and escalating violence. On Sunday, three young men were shot dead in Guimara Upazila during clashes, their bodies later handed over to families after autopsies. Police have since arrested a suspect, Shoyon Shil, who is currently on six-day remand.
 
The unrest has paralyzed Khagrachhari. A blockade and Section 144 restrictions have brought the district to a standstill, halting transport and shuttering markets. Thousands of day laborers and transport workers have been left without income, while hoteliers and shopkeepers dependent on tourism are suffering heavy losses. Even Durga Puja celebrations have been muted, with empty temples and canceled festivities reported across the region.
 
A five-member administrative inquiry committee has been formed to investigate the violence. District Commissioner A.B.M. Iftekharul Islam and Police Superintendent Jewel visited affected areas, pledging support for victims. Police said they will file cases themselves, as no victims’ families have yet come forward.
 
On Tuesday night, the Jumma Students and Citizens Media Cell announced a temporary suspension of the blockade until October 5, citing assurances from the administration and respect for Hindu religious festivities.
 
Meanwhile, 41 eminent citizens issued a joint statement demanding the formation of an independent commission to investigate allegations of excessive force by law enforcement in Guimara. They stressed that no security force is above the law and called for accountability to end a “culture of impunity.”
 
The situation remains tense, with the district’s economy, daily life, and communal harmony severely disrupted. Authorities have indicated that Section 144 restrictions will be lifted once stability is restored.
 
END/BTK/SMA/