Human rights activist, freelance writer and the Secretary General of Bangladesh Adibashi Forum Mr. Sanjeeb Drong, and his spouse Ms. Mitali Chishim, were attacked by approximately 10 to 12 unidentified assailants at Ranikhong area while they were returning from Ranikhong Boheratali Christian Mission under Susong Gurgapur upazilla in Netrokona district. The unidentified assailants physically assaulted him and destroyed his motorcycle.
Mr. Drong is a well-known human rights defender and is active within the indigenous people’s movements in Bangladesh and in many human rights and civil society organisations. He has strongly supported the rights, and shown his solidarity with, the people of the Chittagong Hill Tracts over the years. He is also a very visible media personality and takes part in various meetings and seminars related to the rights of indigenous people.
The CHT Commission strongly condemns this criminal assault on Mr. Drong and Ms Chishim. We urge the government to immediately investigate the matter, to prosecute the perpetrators and inflict exemplary punishment. We urge the Government of Bangladesh to ensure full security of those who raise their voice against human rights violations.
On behalf of the CHT Commission
Eric Avebury, Sultana Kamal and Ida Nicolaisen
Co-chairs of the CHT Commission
Bangladesh Secretariat: [email protected], www.chtcommission.org