Sajek blockade resumes

RANGAMATI, Nov 02: An indefinite road blockade in Sajek, Rangamati, resumed on Monday after a 12-hour suspension, further disrupting normal life in the popular hill tourist destination amid worsening shortages of food, essential commodities and medicines.

The fourth phase of the blockade began at 6:00am following a call by the Sajek Gana Odhikar Rakkha Committee and the Sajek Karbari Association. Protesters placed tree trunks across roads at several points and set fires, preventing vehicles from moving through the area.

The organisations have been enforcing the blockade since October 22, demanding, among other things, the removal of members of the Parbatya Chattagram Jana Samhati Samiti (JSS), led by Santu Larma, from Sajek and an end to alleged extortion and violence.

Food, medicine supplies dwindle as clashes deepen tension

The blockade was relaxed for 12 hours on Sunday to allow rice and other essential supplies to reach the area. However, a separate blockade called by the Parbatya Chattagram Rakkha Committee on the Khagrachhari-Dighinala-Sajek-Baghaichhari road reportedly prevented supply vehicles from entering Sajek.

Babudhan Chakma, president of the Sajek Gana Odhikar Rakkha Committee, announced in a Facebook Live broadcast on Sunday evening that the movement would continue until the demands were met.

Meanwhile, tension has escalated following two rounds of gunfire between the JSS and the United People's Democratic Front (UPDF) in Kalabunia and Durdurichhara over the past two days, reportedly over territorial dominance.

Sajek Police Station Officer-in-Charge Toffazzal Hossain confirmed the exchanges of gunfire but said police could not verify whether anyone had been injured or killed, as the locations were in remote hilly areas.

The prolonged blockade and clashes have left residents facing severe hardship. Supplies of rice, lentils, medicines and other essentials are running critically low, while locally produced fruits and agricultural goods are rotting as they cannot be transported to markets.

Access to medical care has also become a major concern, with residents struggling to take critically ill patients to hospitals.

The standoff has dealt a severe blow to resort and cottage businesses. Tourist entry to Sajek has already been suspended by the district administration because of the security situation.