Letter-Appeal Reiterating Call for Speedy and Full Investigation on the Arrest and Release of Gunban Violators in Bunot, Paracelis; Condemning Acts of Terrorism; and Calling for Rule of Law to Prevail in Mountain Province
PDG Jesus Versoza Chief Philippine National Police Republic of the Philippines
Hon. General Delfin Bangit Chief of Staff Armed Forces of the Philippines
Hon. Jose A. Melo Chairman Commission on Elections
Atty Nestor Mantaring Director National Bureau of Investigation
Mr. Jude Bago Secretary General Cordillera Human Rights Alliance
SIRS; The undersigned are all residents of Mountain Province in their respective capacities either as private individuals or representatives of an organization.
Respectfully reiterating call of previous complaints and/or requests asking your immediate attention to conduct an impartial and full investigation, and speedy action on the following:
1. The incident which transpired on May 11, 2010 resulting to the confiscation of several high powered firearms from three vehicles, and the supposed arrest of the persons involved therein; 2. The events surrounding the direct and/or indirect involvement of congressional candidate Maximo Dalog for violation of provisions of the Election Law against terrorism, violation on his oath of Candidacy to obey all laws of the Philippine Republic, and disregard of the Mountain Province candidates’ Covenant on Peaceful and Clean Elections which Governor Maximo Dalog personally signed.
We, registered voters and concerned persons from Mountain Province are especially appalled at warlordism and terrorism manifested during the height of the May 2010 elections in our Mountain Province. Refer to linked pages of Attached are copies of local papers-Northern Philippine Times, Zigzag Weekly and Northern Dispatch.
It is unfortunate now for Mountain Province to experience this turmoil during the very recent May 2010 election employed by one of the candidates for the congressional position. Mountain Province is now likened to the province of Abra and Maguindanao that during the very recent elections, guns and goons are being utilized.
We especially take note of the confiscation of firearms loaded in three vehicles at sitio Ampekla, barangay Bunot, Paracelis involving eight persons including the son of Governor Maximo Dalog and the nephews of the Governor’s wife, Cecilia Yawan Dalog. We especially take note of the presence of the Governor’s son, Clarence Dalog, as claimed by witnesses to be one of the occupants of one of the confiscated cars and the one who tried to take the Hi-Lux vehicle where some of the confiscated firearms were confiscated.
That on May 11, 2010, three persons – Fangkingan Lomong-oy, Mariano Yawan, and Florizel Mi-ing, all residents from Bontoc, Mountain Province and related by affinity to Gov. Maximo Dalog – were apprehended by elements of Charlie company of 54rth IB of the Philippine Army led by Lt Alvin Dagondon, at sitio Ampecla of barangay Bunot of the vote rich town of Paracelis. Said persons were driving three convoy cars carrying 6 firearms and live ammunitions when they were apprehended.
Surprisingly, the incident report does not include all eight occupants in the same cars including a son of the governor despite controllable situations for all occupants to be arrested and included in the police report. This was made more revealing when Police Inspector Dexter Mariano Paredes was finally named in the charges filed by the Philippine Army at the Provincial Fiscal’s office.
A confiscated Pistol Cal 9MM is registered to Dexter Mariano Paredes as shown in a certification from the Firearms and Explosives Division of the National Police Commission. Refer to ANNEX 8. He was not able to show any Certification of Exception from the Commission on Election from COMELEC Gun Ban.
Another gun confiscated, a high powered 556 Colt, is registered to Gov. Maximo B. Dalog as shown in a certification by the Firearms and Explosives Division of the National Police Commission.The other firearms are yet to be established as to their ownership and how these came into the possession of those arrested.
On said incident, 6 firearms were confiscated- one Bushmaster caliber 223-5.56 loaded with ammunition confiscated from a Mitsubishi Strada vehicle reportedly owned by Leopold Dalog and driven by Mi-ing; 9mm pistol Puerto Beretta, Model 92 FS, one Armscor shotgun rifle, and baby Armalite rifle all with ammunition found in a Toyota Hilux reportedly owned by Eduard Chaokas and driven by Fangkingan; and KG9 Springfield Super 38 loaded with ammunition in a Pajero owned and driven by Yawan.
Also, we especially take note of the release of the three persons arrested due to the refusal of the arresting officers from the Philippine Army not to sign affidavits of arrest which led PNP- Mountain Province not able to file appropriate charges and eventually led to the release of those arrested.
This glaring disregard of the rule of law cannot be tolerated. It breeds unrest, unpeace, and violence. Nor does Mountain Province allow a culture of guns and goons to persist and be tolerated. The people of Mountain Province known for their peaceful nature and close kinship and community ties cannot allow this province to go into a culture of impunity, violence and warlordism.
We call on the Commission on Elections (COMELEC), National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Philippine National Police (PNP), and the Cordillera Human Rights Alliance (CHRA) to conduct an investigation the soonest possible time the events surrounding the Bunot arrest.
We especially reiterate the call for a thorough and deeper investigation of why not all occupants of the three confiscated cars were not arrested and named in the police report despite controllable situations. We especially ask why Clarence Dalog, son of Governor Dalog was not included among those arrested and named in the Police report, and not charged despite glaring instances to take note of his presence in one of the apprehended cars, and, finally, to determine why the arresting officers despite being a public officers did not sign affidavits of arrest which eventually resulted to the release of the three arrested. We would like to know why arresting officers of the Philippine Army refused to turn over the confiscated fire arms and stayed in their custody. We also call for an objective investigation as to the ownership of guns and the cars confiscated, the latter no more physically impounded within the vicinity of Bontoc Barracks.
We would also like to know why elements of the PNP and the Philippine Army are, by their actions, trying to prevent linking Governor and elected congressman Maximo Dalog by not arresting Clarence Dalog and naming him in the police report, and derailing the rule of law by not filing the necessary affidavits of arrest which led to the eventual release of the suspects.
In the interest of transparency, truth, peace and order, and the rule of law to prevail, it is our fervent prayer that you conduct the appropriate action and direct respective response to charges already filed at the Provincial Prosecutor’s office elevated to the Regional State Prosecutor and other petitions which findings of investigation may have bearing to ensure that no one is above the law.
Sincerely,
JULIET PALICOS Sabangan, Mountain Province
BRENDA D.FUCHAY Sagada, Mountain Province
AGNES ACOFO Bontoc, Mountain Province
CHRISTOPHER SALLY Bauko, Mountain Province
ERNESTO GUNDAY Paracelis, Mountain Province
LORETA YOCOGAN Representative Cordillera Peoples Alliance- Mountain Province
EMERITA M. DAZON KATRIBU- Mountain Province
Copy furnished: 1. COMELEC Regional Director - CAR 2. COMELEC Mountain Province Chairman 3. Police Superintendent Villamor Bumanglag, PNP Regional Director -CAR 4. Police Superintendent Fortunato Albas, PNP Mountain Province Director 5. NBI Director-CAR 6. Regional State Prosecutor Atty Cesar Nonnatus Rojas
In support to the above letter-appeal we sign our names herein:
A global petition asks the Sabah Chief Minister to stop the implementation of Kaiduan Dam following complaints that the environmental assessment has not been done in consultation with the affected peoples.
The 150 meter proposed Kaiduan Dam will be built in Ulu Papar, Sabah washing away 350 kilometers of traditional lands as a water catchment reserve. This will include the flooding of 12 square kilometers locating 9 indigenous villages. Around 1,400 indigenous Dusun people live in the Ulu Papar villages of Kalanggaan, Pongobonon, Longkogungan, Terian and the Buayan-Kionob hamlets of Timpayasa, Tiku, Buayan and Kionob. Most of these subsistence swidden villages are located within the proposed water catchment reserve.
The proposed flooding of 12 square kilometers includes a government primary school, 3 community preschools, churches, graves, tamus (village markets), houses, fruit and vegetable gardens, suspension bridges, rice mills and rice fields.
Kaiduan Dam will be connected by a 3.75m diameter tunnel to channel water to a water treatment plant proposed in Maang village. The tunnel runs through the territories of an additional eight indigenous communities including the villages Timpangoh, Sugud, and Limbanak, a densely populated area, until it reaches Maang. From Maang, the water will travel by tunnel to Lok Kawi where it will be channeled by pipe to houses in Penampang, Kota Kinabalu and other areas.
A feasibility study and submission of technical proposals for the implementation of the Kaiduan Dam Project was granted by the Sabah government in February 2008. This led to the selection of Contractor WCT Bhd which appointed SMHB Sdn Bhd to conduct the preliminary feasibility study. Following the results of the feasibility, a letter of intent was issued to WCT Bhd on 15 May 2009 requesting WCT Bhd to carry out detailed feasibility studies, full environmental impact assessment and preparation of detailed technical proposals for the construction of the Kaiduan Dam.
It was learned that the Water Resources Council was not consulted on the plans for the Kaiduan Dam Project, neither were the elected representatives or relevant government agencies who claimed to be unaware of the plans for the dam.
The government says the Kaiduan Dam will ensure sufficient water supply to Kota Kinabalu until the year 2050. The plan for the construction of the Maang Water Treatment Plant and the upgrading of two existing plants would cost RM2.8billion. The dam will be three times larger than the existing Babagon Dam which is also situated in the Penampang District. The Kaiduan Dam is additionally expected to generate 37MW of hydroelectric power.
Affected communities from nine villages (Terian, Babagon Laut, Timpayasa, Tiku, Buayan, Pongobonon, Kalanggaan, Timpangoh and Longkogungan) formed the Action Committee Against Kaiduan Dam. The Action Committee said that the government did not obtain the free, prior and informed consent of the communities and has not seriously considered environmental and social costs, Indigenous Peoples Issues and Resources noted.
The Action Committee lamented that the State does not value indigenous peoples’ traditional lands, livelihood, and biodiversity.
The Committee further noted that feasibility study failed to evaluate alternative water supply solutions or comparative studies on water resource availability for Sabah.
I am seeking your support on behalf of the Action Committee Against Kaiduan Dam which was set up by communities potentially affected directly by the Kaiduan dam. A number of NGOs are also helping us in our campaign and I hope you/your organisation could support by writing a letter to the Sabah government to reconsider the building of this dam.
In short, the dam will be built in an one of Sabah's most beautiful area, preserved because there was no road access to our villages until recently and because of our ways of life that maintain a healthy respect for the environment. The 150 metres proposed dam will mean about 350 square kilometers of our traditional lands will be taken as a water catchment reserve, including the flooded area of 12 square kilometres where 9 villages are currently located. There are confusing information from the government that the dam project has not been approved yet even though the contractor already started to enter the affected villages to conduct an EIA. Interviews with the community were far from satisfactory. We will keep you updated on activities that the Action Committee has done so far.
The next few weeks are crucial as the government considers what to do next after complaints from the communities that the Environmental Impact Assessment has not followed procedures prescribed by the State. This period will also coincide with heightened campaigns locally against the dam.
We therefore hope that you/your organisation will join other groups/individuals all over the world to take a few minutes to sign-on to this petition.
We also respectfully ask your continued support to press for the cancellation of the Kaiduan dam and instead request the government to take several other measures including improving the management of its water supply, doing a public campaign to save water and exploring other cheaper and safer options for water supply.
Thank you for your time and support.
Yours sincerely,
Nousi Giun Chairperson, Action Committee Against Kaiduan Dam
Please stop this. It derails all efforts on peace building being done.- Ann Lily Uvero, Philippines
I understand how terrible the killing was. I come from Burma and my mother died in 1992. She was kicked, and beaten by the Burmese soldiers. Mon People lived in Burma thousands of year before the arrival of the Burmans. We are treated as animals at our homeland. It is happening the same in Jumma-land. Bangladesh is the same as Burma. Let us stand together for our last stand.- U Ravika,Burma
Bangladesh seriously needs to respect and protect the human rights of indigenous peoples in CHT. The country should take urgent steps to stop encroaching on indigenous peoples land and to punish immediately those responsible in unleasing inhumanity and barbarism at its worst. - Jiten Yumnam, India
We, the indigenous peoples of Indus and tribal of Suleiman Mountains, are seriously concerned on the violence going on against the Jumma peoples and demand the govt of Bangladesh to take notice and do justice with the tribal peoples by acknowledging their right to peace, livelihood and identity.- Wasim Wagha,Pakistan
We at HRCBM are heart broken by the animosity of Bengali settlers and feel that state elements have failed to protect indigenous people of CHT. The allegation of Army’s involvement indicates state’s failure to uphold it’s constitution and it’s obligation under international law. This is an incidental proof of the ongoing genocide that long been ignore by the state as well the international community. It is thus imperative that state be hold responsible for such atrocities.- Dhiman Ded Chowdhury
...it's ETHNIC CLEANSING that is happening in CHT and we want the world to protest against it and protect us from being uprooted from our ancesteral lands. WE NEED YOUR HELP! -Souvik Chakma, CHT, Bangladaesh
We Korean Buddhists are deeply sad by this news. We hope the Government of Bangladesh take necessary actions to fully implement the rights of the Jumma people as soon as possible.- Joo Myonghee, Korea
Not only as a member of an Adibashi community also as a citizen of this country I strongly demand for the justice for the victims and urge all to support us.- Ruby Areng, Bangladesh
This is terrible.Bangladesh government should handle this massacre! - Md. Anisur Rahman, Bangladesh
I can not comprehend the barbarity of your army and plain land settlers on the indegenous people of Chittagong Hill Tracts. As the head of a democratic government you are the responsible person and only you can stop and take action for these heinous acts. Our Jumma people supported all along your party and is this the prize for it Madam Prime Minister? - Dr Bhagadatta Chakma
What happened in 'baghaichhari' is a shame for us as human beings. I personally feel ashamed as a 'Bangalee' as the Bangalee settlers are intruding by any means to lands of indigenous people. I am ashamed as a 'Bangladeshi' as this looting is happening on direct back up of the State's defense force for a very long time. I resemble myself in a position of Pakistani in 1971 and the indigenous people in place of 'Bangalees' and our national pride 'of no use'. BD army is doing the same thing what Pakistani army did in 1971. But our army is doing that for last couple of decades. I apologize to all 'Paharee' people as a human being.- Bhuiya Abddullah Al Faheem
We have to draw attention to the Bangladesh government to stop this violence.This is not acceptable for human behaviour.We have to protest internationally as much as we can.We hope that we will get support from various countries in the world.We have to fight the Bangladesh government to stop violence in CHT. Bangladesh government and Bengali people should not do such violence.l should say Bengali people have kindness for human beings.- Sa Ching Marma, Bangladesh
Please stop land grabbing and killing of Jumma people of CHTs. I appeal to the Hon'ble Prime Minister of Bangladesh to ensure peace and human security in CHTs. If Bangladesh government fails to do it, please ask UN for peace intervention in CHT.- Subhagya Mangal Chakma
This is a deplorable act perpetrated by people who don't care about the needs and welfare of others.This has been going on for ages and yet the past and present government is doing nothing to stop this.I personally condemn the act and request the government to give justice to these Jumma people. No body is above the law.-Anonymous
This is a barbaric act and gross violation of human rights and freedom for religious practice. I condemn this terrorist act. It is deplorable that even the State is not doing anything to resolve this problem.- Bibek Prasad Sharma
Please feel Buddhist, Islamic, Christian, Buddhist or other religion are human. Why different? We are in the same ground. We are in the same atmosphere. We breath the same air together. I don't know what you're thinking about Buddhist but all Buddhist are brothers and sisters. Please feel Buddhist....-Satthai Thanakorn, Thailand
Honorable PM, FM, HM, State M, Deputy Leader of JS, please implement CHTs Peace accord immediately with an action plan with time frame, send a parliamentary team at CHT to investigate the recent atrocity at Baghaihat and Khagrachai. Punish those who are responsible for this incident.- Dhiraj Chakma, Bangladesh
Shame on you for preying on the Chittagong people. We in America deeply regret our early experience with land grabs and inhuman treatment of original people. In the name of civilization, stop this travesty!- Barry Halgrimson
I don't understand why our Hon'ble Prime Minister who arranged to get the CHT Peace Accord-1997 signed is still keeping her silence on this horrific acts of violence. Why there is no order for judicial enquiry yet into this barbaric acts? I pray and hope that Democracy and Justice will prevail in Bangladesh.- Anonymous
Bangladesh is not in a situation it needs commit massacre in the name of national integration, intentional outsider-intrusion in the name of nation-building, nor anymore death in the name of security. I condemn the recent heinous incidents in CHT and appeal to get the responsible into justice leading to permanent peace in CHT. James Khakshi, Institute of Political Studies Bordeaux, France
I can't find the words to describe my deep concern about this tragic situation, the government has to take measures to protect the rights of Jumma people there. Otherwise, the whole world will boycott products from Bangladesh and take other drastic measures I am quite sure of it. -Berengere Desprez
I hope we shall read in the international newspapers of how the Bangledeshi Government has helped the poor and wronged and proved that they are the government of ALL Bangladeshis and not only of Bengalis. The greatness of a nation is proved by the tolerence shown to its minorities. Michael Prosser
With our bitter experiences with Pakistan for long time we cannot treat other ethnic people showing disrespect to their feelings and tradition and their way of life and make the same mistakes as Pakistani regime after regime did with us as we opposed to those and fought back vehemently in our long history! Immediate Implementation of Peace Treaty and meaningful Land reform is being URGENTLY needed to save the erupting situation! Do not try to marginalize ethnic people there with massive influx of other ethnic people to make them minority in their own backyard! That was wrong with us 40 years ago - that is wrong with CHT people today! We, the Bengali Nation cannot transfer the part of that oppression to our own people of the land! - Saleem Noor
The Fourth World Association of Sweden condemns attacks of this kind. All violation of human rights are unacceptable. The indigenous peoples of the Chittagong Hill Tracts must have their rights protected in every way by law, which is to be upheld by the governement of Bangladesh and its army, according to earlier agreements. - Henrik Persson, BA, Fourth World Association/Sweden
• Name: Gina Dizon on Feb 23, 2010
Comments: Stop grabbing Indigenous Peoples Lands! Justice to victims of the Baghaichari land grabbing!
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Name: U Ravika on Feb 23, 2010
Comments: I understand how terrible the killing was. I came from Burma and my mother died in 1992. She was kicked, beaten, and aimed by guns by the Burmese soldiers. The house was stormed by them. Mon People have been lived in Burma thousands of year before the arrival of the Burmans. Burma is our homeland. We are treated as animals at our home. It is happening the same in Jumma-land. I saw Bangladesh the same as Burma. Let us stand together for our last stand.
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Name: Ann Lily Marie O. Uvero on Feb 23, 2010
Comments: Please stop this, it derails all effort on the peace building being done.
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Name: Saikat Biswas on Feb 23, 2010
Comments: One of the major indicators of good governance is that, 'how the minority and ethnic communities are living with free, fare, non-discriminate situation including enjoy their rights and dignity'. But what is a showing here? Ask your conscience.
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Name: Ellen Bang-Oa on Feb 23, 2010
Comments:
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Name: Arthur L. Allad-Iw on Feb 23, 2010
Comments:
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Name: Mbaya Mulonzya on Feb 23, 2010
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Name: Dom-An Macagne on Feb 23, 2010
Comments: indigenous bamboo nose flute player from the Cordillera, Philippines
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Name: Yvonne McPhee on Feb 23, 2010
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Name: Leticia Miana on Feb 23, 2010
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Name: Colin Nicholas on Feb 23, 2010
Comments: Madam PM: Please show your own people that you lead a civilized country.
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Name: Robeliza Halip on Feb 23, 2010
Comments:
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Name: Tom Cruise on Feb 23, 2010
Comments: Dear Madams\ Sirs, The Honorable Ministers, Especially Excellentcy Prime of the PEOPPLE REPUBLIC OF BANGLADESH, According to the election manifesto& 1997 peace accord it's required to remove the military from the HILL TRACKS; and the setlers, which they are occupying illigaly. Sincerely, TOM Cruise.
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Name: Wasim Wagha on Feb 23, 2010
Comments: We, the indigenous peoples of Indus and tribal of Suleiman Mountains, are seriously concerned on the violence going on against the Juma peoples and demand the govt of Bangladesh to take notice and do justice with the tribal peoples by acknowledging their right to peace, livelhoods and identity.
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Name: Shirin Lira on Feb 23, 2010
Comments: Stop supression and bloodshade
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Name: Jiten Yumnam on Feb 23, 2010
Comments: Bangladesh seriously needs to respect and protect the human rights of indigenous peoples in CHT. The country should take urgent steps to stop encroaching on indigenous peoples land and to punish immediately those responsible in unleasing inhumanity and barbarism at its worst.
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Name: Rumana Hashem on Feb 23, 2010
Comments: When words are lost I can't say much. But SILENCING PEOPLE MUST STOP!
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Name: Alastair Henry on Feb 23, 2010
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Name: Paul Dudman on Feb 23, 2010
Comments:
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Name: Ana Rubio Fernandez on Feb 23, 2010
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Name: Muktasree Chakma Sathi on Feb 23, 2010
Comments: pls, do as u promises. otherwise the people who supports u they will not do it anymore.
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Name: Ashok K Chakma on Feb 23, 2010
Comments: Please act on stopping killing people in CHT without delay.
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Name: Subrata Chakma on Feb 23, 2010
Comments: stop bloodshed and do justice.
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Name: Joseph Surja on Feb 23, 2010
Comments:
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Name: Rakhi Barua on Feb 23, 2010
Comments:
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Name: Kazim Khan on Feb 23, 2010
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Name: Lina Lushai on Feb 23, 2010
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Name: Nasrin Siraj Annie on Feb 23, 2010
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Name: Maky Khisa on Feb 23, 2010
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Name: Tahsin Tareq Ahmad on Feb 23, 2010
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Name: Tahmina Hoque on Feb 23, 2010
Comments: I am not an indigeneous, but I can feel what is going upon them. please let us behave like human beings. Don't make any person homeless. Be afraid of acting like THE SUPREME BEING...........
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Name: Midori Matsuda on Feb 23, 2010
Comments: Please stop violence, Please don't abuse power of Army injustice. Please respect / protect IP's peaceful life and rights.
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Name: Eros Bonazzi on Feb 23, 2010
Comments: Please stop killing in CHT and investigate about present violences. Please, in the name of humanity!
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Name: NEIKESANUO SORHIE on Feb 23, 2010
Comments:
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Name: Mithila Mahfuz on Feb 23, 2010
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Name: NAGA PEOPLES' MOVEMENT FOR HUMAN RIGHTS, DELHI SECTOR on Feb 23, 2010
Comments:
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Name: WOMEN AGAINST MILITARIZATION AND STATE VIOLENCE, THE OTHER MEDIA on Feb 23, 2010
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Name: Eva Turner on Feb 23, 2010
Comments:
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Name: Tanuja Bhattacharjee on Feb 23, 2010
Comments:
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Name: Karuna Priya on Feb 23, 2010
Comments: We want a FULL STOP to all this injustice and complete implementation of the CHT Peace Accord!
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Name: Suresh Bikash Tanchangya on Feb 23, 2010
Comments: please stop grabbing jummaland and implement CHT peace accord. Let the people of CHT live in their lands in peace and harmony. Withdrew the army camps from CHT. Stop destroying Buddhist temples in CHT.
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Name: Bhikkhu K Tanchangya on Feb 23, 2010
Comments: Let the jumma people live in peace in their own land. Implement the CHT peace accord so that peace would prevail in the hills.
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Name: Nasrin Khandoker on Feb 23, 2010
Comments:
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Name: S P Chakma on Feb 23, 2010
Comments: No more blood in CHT. No more Army in CHT. No more Settlers in CHT. Please remove the Settlers from CHT. We want peace.
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Name: Marie-Claire Vlasblom on Feb 23, 2010
Comments:
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Name: Pratang Chakma on Feb 23, 2010
Comments: চন্ডালের মতো হীন ও পাশবিক এ অত্যাচার ধরনী সইবেনা।যাদের তোমরা ফ্রাঙ্কেনস্টাইন হিসাবে গড়ে তুলছো তারাই একদিন বুমেরাং হবে।আজকের এ কথাটা মনে রেখো।
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Name: Buddha Ratana Bhikkhu on Feb 23, 2010
Comments: We demand immediate action for it
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Name: Dhiman Deb Chowdhury on Feb 23, 2010
Comments: We at HRCBM (http://www.hrcbm.org ) heart broken by the animosity of Bengali settlers and feel that state elements have failed to protect indigenous people of CHT. The allegation of Army’s involvement indicates state’s failure to uphold it’s constitution and it’s obligation under international law. This is an incidental proof of the ongoing genocide that long been ignore by the state as well the international community. It is thus imperative that state be hold responsible for such atrocities. Thanks Dhiman D Chowdhury President HRCBM http://www.hrcbm.org
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Name: SAPTERSHI CHAKMA on Feb 23, 2010
Comments: my bloods are start boiling for recent activities of sattelar bangali in khagrachari and bhagaichari.and also to sheik hasina for her demcare in the CHT cricies.
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Name: Roney on Feb 23, 2010
Comments: Protect bd army
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• Name: Anonymous on Feb 23, 2010
Comments:
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Name: Natalie Nolte on Feb 23, 2010
Comments:
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Name: Souvik Chakma on Feb 23, 2010
Comments: We want Bengali settlers out of Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) and full implementation of 1997 CHT peace accord...in 1947 ethnic minorities counted for 97.5% of the population of CHT, in 1991 it was 51%, we are now minority in our own lands...govt. is sending bengalis from the plains to make us minority there... Bengalis backed by the army are taking away our lands either by force or by making false documents..they are torching our homes, temples and churches, raping and killing our people...land is not ours anymore.. Even the constitution of BAngladesh doesn't recognise our ethnicity, our cultures, our languages.. it's ETHNIC CLEANSING that is happening in CHT and we want the world to protest against it and protect us from being uprooted from our ancesteral lands. WE NEED YOUR HELP ! read the LIFE IS NOT OURS series by the international CHT commission to know more. u can get the copies here > http://www.chtcommission.org/?page_id=13 you y also read ETHNIC CLEANSING IN CHITTAGONG HILL TRACTS by Mr.SARADINDU SHEKHAR CHAKMA ISBN 984 464 164
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Name: Anna Varney-Wong on Feb 23, 2010
Comments:
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Name: Usurp Art Gallery &Amp; Studios on Feb 23, 2010
Comments:
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Name: Anha Faruque Khan on Feb 23, 2010
Comments: Adibasi der somosto dabir sathe akatyota janacci.
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Name: Russell Chakma on Feb 23, 2010
Comments:
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Name: Atithi Chakma on Feb 23, 2010
Comments: Please take immediate action to save these people.......
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Name: Patrick Kennedy on Feb 23, 2010
Comments:
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Name: Md. Kayasul Islam on Feb 23, 2010
Comments: plz stop this ..................
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Name: Anonymous on Feb 23, 2010
Comments: r 71 chai na. paharira amader bondhu-aponjon
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Name: Yeasir Rahul on Feb 23, 2010
Comments: I support the cause of Jumma people wholeheartedly. And I apologize to them, on behalf of the Bangalis, for the injustice they are suffering for the last 50 years.
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Name: Joo Myonghee on Feb 23, 2010
Comments: We Korean Buddhists are deeply sad by this news. We hope the Government of Bangladesh take necessary actions to fully implement the rights of the Jumma people as soon as possible.
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Name: Amlan Chakma on Feb 23, 2010
Comments: Please save our people, land and Chittagong Hill TRcats by implementing CHT Accord.
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Name: Abu Mustafiz on Feb 23, 2010
Comments: protibader vasha nai
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Name: Bonney Hartley on Feb 23, 2010
Comments:
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Name: Pinaki Roy on Feb 23, 2010
Comments: I strongly opposed, grabbing of Jumma People's land.
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Name: SMITA CHAKMA on Feb 23, 2010
Comments: Hello, I dont want to say thousand words, dont want to do thousand request. This is such a crucial moment, such a situation no emotional sound gonna come out from my voice. Just want to say, BD is going to be destroy if the government is'nt initiative about whats happening inside. I pray the highest hell for all of those people who are involve in these brutality...
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Name: Dilruba Sharmin on Feb 23, 2010
Comments:
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Name: Dhiraj Debbarma on Feb 23, 2010
Comments: Really heart touching and indeed gross violation of human rights going out there..My only Appeal to the concerned authorities. Please be partial in your dealings and do something,before the situation goes out of control!
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Name: Asta Mitkija Balto on Feb 23, 2010
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Name: SATYA TRIPURA on Feb 23, 2010
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Name: Dibos on Feb 23, 2010
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Name: Nabarun Chakma on Feb 23, 2010
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Name: Dr Bhagadatta Chakma on Feb 23, 2010
Comments: I can not comprehend the barbarity of your army and plain land settlers on the indegenous people of Chittagong Hill Tracts. As the head of a democratic government you are the responsible person and only you can stop and take action for these heinous acts. Our Jumma people supported all along your party and is this the prize for it Madam Prime Minister?
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Name: Anonymous on Feb 23, 2010
Comments:
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Name: Kabita Chakma on Feb 23, 2010
Comments:
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Name: Piya Chakma on Feb 23, 2010
Comments:
• 79
Name: Joyoti Grech Cato on Feb 23, 2010
Comments: The time has come for Peace in the CHT. Sheikh Hasina, stop the killing. Remove troops. Provide emergency support to survivors.Return land to original inhabitants. Support the peaceful rule of law. Implement the CHT Peace Accord.
• 80
Name: Dr Bhagadatta Chakma on Feb 23, 2010
Comments: I can not comprehend the barbarity of your army and plain land settlers on the indegenous people of Chittagong Hill Tracts. As the head of a democratic government you are the responsible person and only you can stop and take action for these heinous acts. Our Jumma people supported all along your party and is this the prize for it Madam Prime Minister?
• 81
Name: Rahul Chakma John on Feb 23, 2010
Comments: humble request from UNO and Govt. of bangladesh to save indegenous CHAKMA.Now we people are helpless.As a nuatral party please try 2 overcome the problem.we want peace.
• 82
Name: Phanuthep Sutthithepthamrong on Feb 24, 2010
Comments:
• 83
Name: Phanuthep Sutthithepthamrong on Feb 24, 2010
Comments:
• 84
Name: Suchismita Roy on Feb 24, 2010
Comments:
• 85
Name: Shimul Chakma on Feb 24, 2010
Comments:
• 86
Name: Beth Mutton on Feb 24, 2010
Comments: I recently travelled to Bangladesh and specifically the Chittagong Hill Tracts area. It apalls me to know that the Bengali people are intent on staling land that does not belong to them, without any legal basis, and with the cost of the blood of thosae they are taking it from. Can you not see this is wrong? I met many people , Bengalis and indigenous people, and I know that they want this intermitent fighting to cease forever. Do not let this become another 1995. Resolve your problems without violence,and to the Bengalis- respect your neighbour, your country men, those who you fought alongside in the 1971 war, you are now turning against for the sake of greed!
• 87
Name: Hla Htay on Feb 24, 2010
Comments:
• 88
Name: Dalim Tanchangya on Feb 24, 2010
Comments: Please STOP killing in CHT. control Army & settlers ..... we want peace....
• 89
Name: Kolpon Chakma on Feb 24, 2010
Comments:
• 90
Name: Ruby Areng on Feb 24, 2010
Comments: Not only as a member of an Adibashi community also as a citizen of this country I strongly demand for the justice for the victims and urge to all to support us.
• 91
Name: Evelina Chakma on Feb 24, 2010
Comments:
• 92
Name: Evelina Chakma on Feb 24, 2010
Comments:
• 93
Name: Sourav Chakma on Feb 24, 2010
Comments:
• 94
Name: Ushaloy Chakma on Feb 24, 2010
Comments: Save us or declare war.
• 95
Name: Fatema Johara on Feb 24, 2010
Comments:
• 96
Name: Mir Mosharrof Hossain on Feb 24, 2010
Comments: please prime minister, save the humanity......dont through cht people to do establish their right with arms....act quickly.
• 97
Name: Prantik Chakma on Feb 24, 2010
Comments: it's really bad.our govt has no reaction about this. i hope govt. see this and take action who had done this.
• 98
Name: Md. Anisur Rahman on Feb 24, 2010
Comments: This is terrible.Bangladesh government should handle this massacre!
• 99
Name: Saydia Gulrukh on Feb 24, 2010
Comments: Bangladesh Army Out of Chittagong Hill Tracts..End Bengali Occupation NOW!!!
• 100
Name: Pranab Tanchangya on Feb 24, 2010
Comments: I am highly concerned about these current situations of CHITTAGONG HILL TRACTS jummo community. Due to present status many of debating against the fair events almost exposed and exposing which are driving people through wrong information and the main events are countered to be exposed clearly. i would like to tell every one that please observe the events carefully and explain all kinds of controversial topics clearly to others who are not clear about the situations. thank you all.
• 101
• Name: George Nokrek on Feb 24, 2010
Comments: stop violence in CHT.
• 102
Name: Nazneen Shifa on Feb 24, 2010
Comments:
• 103
Name: Sumaya Imam on Feb 24, 2010
Comments: Why these armies are always playing vindictive role to the Jumma? These irritable armies and Bengalis should be avert from the village and a threat for further of any mischief should be warn!
• 104
Name: Wasfia Nazreen on Feb 24, 2010
Comments:
• 105
Name: Trimita Chakma on Feb 24, 2010
Comments: I support the above petition.
• 106
Name: Anonymous on Feb 24, 2010
Comments: It is a great necessity that the present government of Bangladesh should implement the peace accord practically signed in 1997 and withdraw the military forces from the CHT, and establish DEMOCRACY. The Tribal people have come forward when Bangladesh was in need of during difficulties; they were also engaged in the war against Pakistan in 1971.
• 107
Name: Lobsang Tenzen on Feb 24, 2010
Comments: please put a stop to the killing of innocent people.
• 108
Name: S.Debbarma on Feb 24, 2010
Comments: Ms PM,Could you please stop this land grabbing act by the Muslim Bengalis.
• 109
Name: Uching Nue Chak on Feb 24, 2010
Comments:
• 110
Name: Bhuiya Abddullah Al Faheem on Feb 24, 2010
Comments: What happened in 'baghaichhari' is a shame for us as a human being. I personally feel ashamed as a 'Bangalee' as the Bangalee settlers are intruding by any means to lands from indigenous people. And i am ashamed as a 'Bangladeshi' as this looting is happening on direct back up of the state's defense force for a very long time. I resemble myself in a position of a Pakistani in 1971 and the indigenous people in place of 'bangalees' and our national pride and 'of no use' BD army is doing the same thing what pakistani army did in 1971; but our army is doing that for last couple of decades. I apologize to all 'Paharee' people as a human being.
• 111
Name: Jummo Changma on Feb 24, 2010
Comments: Any way you can protect against Bangalee Army SOB & Settler SOB
• 112
Name: Anonymous on Feb 24, 2010
Comments: Any way you can protect against Bangalee Army SOB & Settler SOB
• 113
Name: Ashraf Shishir on Feb 24, 2010
Comments: Stop Grabbing Jumma Land and Implement CHT Accord
• 114
Name: Effie Mats on Feb 24, 2010
Comments:
• 115
Name: Tunir on Feb 24, 2010
Comments: plz pay attention 2 dis prob, we r human2 nd none has da right2 treat us like dt.
• 116
Name: Joy Tripura on Feb 24, 2010
Comments:
• 117
Name: Hefzul Bari Ratul on Feb 24, 2010
Comments: Fight for justice....Fight for your rights....We are with you.
• 118
Name: Nayan Tanchangya on Feb 24, 2010
Comments: very bad behavior
• 119
Name: Malsawm Kim Irene on Feb 24, 2010
Comments:
• 120
Name: Shimul Barua on Feb 24, 2010
Comments: Please stop this cuelty and respect the minorities.
• 121
Name: Janet Naco on Feb 24, 2010
Comments:
• 122
Name: Toitum Chakma on Feb 24, 2010
Comments: Will you tolerate outsiders/settlers to your land or properties? I am sure no one will. Settlers/outsiders are destroying the living harmony in CHT, and its a shame for a nation that they are backed by the prestigeous military of our country.
• 123
Name: Ushino Marma on Feb 24, 2010
Comments: stop all......
• 124
Name: Mrinal M. Mrong C.S.C on Feb 24, 2010
Comments: Criminals are not belongs to any nation, religion and country.
• 125
Name: Umay Prue on Feb 24, 2010
Comments: save our community.........save our land.... lets make hand together.
• 126
Name: AUMI on Feb 24, 2010
Comments: SOLIDARITY!
• 127
Name: Suraporn Suriyamonton on Feb 24, 2010
Comments:
• 128
Name: Lina Lushai on Feb 24, 2010
Comments:
• 129
Name: Tally Dewan on Feb 24, 2010
Comments:
• 130
Name: Liya Chakma on Feb 24, 2010
Comments: By signing this ipetition I express my support to fellow jumma community and request government to take immediate actions to stop such violence. I would also request a fair investigation so that it does not happen in the future.
• 131
Name: Fahmidul Haq on Feb 24, 2010
Comments: Stop Grabbing Jumma Land and Implement CHT Accord
• 132
Name: Shyamal Kanti Barman on Feb 24, 2010
Comments: We must stand right now by the Jumma people of CHT. Their problems should be resolved politically.
• 133
Name: Rana Chakma on Feb 24, 2010
Comments: I urge all the peace loving people of the world to condemn this atrocious killings of the Indigenous people of the Chittagong Hill Tracts, committed by the Bengali settlers. Also please circulate this link to as many contacts as possible with a request to do the same.
• 134
Name: Richard Solly on Feb 24, 2010
Comments:
• 135
Name: Mithel Chakma on Feb 24, 2010
Comments: Just couldn't stop tear-drops after reading it and seeing the photos. Please stop this kind of barbaric act forever in CHT. We want peace and communal-harmony. Bangladesh Govt. must take immediate action to find out the culprits for punishment.
• 136
Name: Santanu Dey on Feb 24, 2010
Comments:
• 137
Name: Jed Medel Laurito on Feb 24, 2010
Comments: I am saddened by the atrocities...one with the Jumma people in their struggle for territorial rights.
• 138
Name: Promud Sinha on Feb 24, 2010
Comments: Please stop these kind of inhuman activities and save the innocent lives there. This should not be repeated in future. We're all brothers and sisters whether it is minor or major. And the culprits must be well punished
• 139
Name: Richard Edkins on Feb 24, 2010
Comments:
• 140
Name: Polly on Feb 24, 2010
Comments: Shame for nation or Humanity
• 141
Name: Rocktim Dewan on Feb 24, 2010
Comments:
• 142
Name: Oinam Lanthoy on Feb 24, 2010
Comments: please stop grabbing jummaland and implement CHT peace accord. Let the people of CHT live in their lands in peace and harmony. Stop destroying Buddhist temples in CHT.
• 143
Name: Abhoy Prakash Chakma on Feb 24, 2010
Comments: The Govt. of Bangladsh will have to preserve us by forming a safe place like sanctaurium to save our different culture, ethnic diversity and there is no way except regional autnomy.
• 144
Name: Shanawez on Feb 24, 2010
Comments: Plz world community stop it
• 145
• Name: Evelina Chakma on Feb 24, 2010
Comments:
• 146
Name: Didarul Alam on Feb 24, 2010
Comments: niceeeeee
• 147
Name: Helen Lowe on Feb 24, 2010
Comments:
• 148
Name: Raymond Areng on Feb 24, 2010
Comments: I demand immediate and appropriate measures against those who made the Jummu people helpless from the government.
• 149
Name: Ashis Kumar Chakma on Feb 24, 2010
Comments:
• 150
Name: Pratiti Chakma on Feb 24, 2010
Comments:
• 151
• Name: Raphael on Feb 24, 2010
Comments: i m with u.
• 152
Name: Debasish Debu on Feb 24, 2010
Comments: `jollader ai ullas moncho amar desh noy.' kshoma koro paharer bondura, amiO 1jon bangali.
• 153
Name: Shibayan on Feb 24, 2010
Comments: Stop this ethnic cleansing and restore rights for the Hill tribes.
• 154
Name: Aparna Howlader on Feb 24, 2010
Comments: Agree with the petition .
• 155
Name: Tanu Murang on Feb 24, 2010
Comments: Bring the culprits in to justice
• 156
Name: Jennifer Harkonen on Feb 24, 2010
Comments:
• 157
Name: Romel Chakma on Feb 24, 2010
Comments: Please Save our lives........
310
Name: Graeme Tully on Mar 4, 2010 Comments: Please respect the Jumma people and implement the CHT Accord. Your behaviour is viewed as monstrous by the ordinary person.
Comments: As former Bangladeshi, I'm appalled to hear how Bangladesh treats their own citizens. In a changing world, our indigenous tribes are the only ones to show us how to live in harmony with our world again.
Comments: I am utterly disgusted by the actions of the settlers, aided and protected by the army. Indigenous peoples rights must be respected, they have lived there for countless generations and must be allowed to remain there in peace. An independent inquiry into these incidents must be conducted as soon as possible and those responsible, including army personnel, brought to justice.
Comments: Please stop immediately the brutal, inhumane and unjustified attacks on these innocent people who simply just want to carry on living in their homes harming no one
Comments: We don't want to see this happend again on the soil of CHT. The govt of Bangladesh must respect the accord which they signed 12 years ago. As per the accord they must first and foremost have to withdraw all army camps from CHT; and the govt must solve land problems as per recommendations of CHT Jumma leaders. The govt should consider EU proposal with regard to assisting resettlement of Bengali settlers from CHT to elsewhere in Bangladesh. If the govt is really intend to establish peace in the CHT's soil then they must take courageous actions of above soon.
Comments: These abominations and acts of attempted Genocide against the Jumma People must end now and CHT accord fully and immeditaely implemented, and any acts of aggression be dealt with under strict observance of laws against Genocide. This cannot continue any longer. It is wrong for humans to treat eachother so and there can be no excuse for such barbaric and animalistic acts such as these. yours sincerely. Michael Clay.
