Google Alert – Bangladesh Army
An indefinite blockade has paralysed Khagrachhari for a third consecutive day, with all transport halted, markets shut and movement tightly restricted under Section 144, as anger over the gang rape of a schoolgirl and the killing of three protesters shows no sign of easing.
The protest, led by the Jumma Chhatra-Janta organisation, began on Monday morning (30 September) and has brought public life across the hill district to a standstill. Demonstrators are demanding justice for the 24 September assault in Singinala and the immediate arrest of all those involved. Sit-ins and burning tyres have blocked key roads, cutting off both long-distance and internal transport routes.
Unrest escalated on Sunday in Guimara Upazila, where three locals were killed during clashes linked to the protests. At least 20 people were injured, including 13 army personnel and three police officers. Since then, Guimara has remained under lockdown with heavy patrols by law enforcement agencies.
Section 144 was imposed indefinitely on Saturday afternoon in Khagrachhari Sadar Upazila and Khagrachhari Municipality, and continues in Guimara. Residents say daily life has been crippled, with shops closed and security forces questioning those who attempt to move even for essentials.
Senior Assistant Superintendent of Police Kazi Wazed Ali confirmed no fresh incidents since the blockade began. “Police have been deployed at all critical locations to maintain order and prevent any acts of sabotage,” he said.
The agitation stems from the alleged gang rape of a schoolgirl on Tuesday, 24 September. She was discovered unconscious in a field around 11 pm after returning from private tuition.
Police have so far arrested a 19-year-old suspect, Shayan Shil, but protesters insist all perpetrators must be arrested and prosecuted.
Local organisers have warned the blockade will continue indefinitely until their demands are met, raising fears of prolonged turmoil in the hill district.