Dhaka, Sep 20 (V7N) – Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus has assured that the government is working diligently to control the situation in the three hill districts following violent clashes between Pahari and Bengali groups in Khagrachari and Rangamati. The statement was made on Friday afternoon in a message issued by the Press Wing of the Chief Adviser.

The government expressed deep sorrow over the recent attacks and loss of life after a lynching incident on 18 September escalated into widespread violence. In response, all law enforcement agencies have been instructed to exercise restraint and ensure the safety of all residents in the affected areas.

"The government is committed to restoring peace, harmony, and stability in the hill districts. All are urged not to take the law into their own hands or engage in destructive activities," the chief adviser’s message stated. The message warned that taking the law into one's own hands or destroying property will be met with legal consequences.

The government also announced that it will launch a full investigation into the violence. "A strong investigation committee will be formed, and those responsible will be prosecuted," the message added. Additionally, the authorities have been instructed to ensure proper medical treatment for the injured.

A high-level government delegation, led by the Home Affairs Adviser, will visit Khagrachari and Rangamati on Saturday to assess the situation. The delegation will include the Chittagong Hill Tracts Adviser, Local Government Adviser, and the Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser on Defense and National Integration Development.

Following the clashes, local authorities imposed Section 144 in several areas of the hill districts. In Rangamati, Section 144 was enforced in the municipal area starting at 1 a.m. on Friday, while it was imposed in Khagrachari’s Sadar Upazila from 2 p.m.

The violence, which erupted in Dighinala, Khagrachari on Thursday, claimed three lives and left 17 others injured. Those who lost their lives have been identified as Junan Chakma (20), Dhananjay Chakma (50), and Rubel Chakma (30). Four of the injured sustained gunshot wounds and are currently receiving treatment at local hospitals.

As tensions continue to simmer, the government is striving to bring the situation under control and prevent further escalation of the conflict.

END/AJ/RH