Who will answer for the blood and ashes in Guimara?

The shocking deaths of three indigenous people in Khagrachhari's Guimara and the burning of houses have raised serious questions. Why does such violence continue in the Chittagong Hill Tracts even after so many years of peace promises and the presence of security forces?

The Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) Peace Accord was signed in 1997 to end decades of conflict. It was supposed to give more rights and autonomy to the indigenous communities. It promised local governance through regional councils, removal of temporary security camps, settlement of land disputes, and protection of Jumma people from attacks.

Even after 27 years, most commitments remain unfulfilled. The hills are still governed in a way where law enforcement agencies hold greater authority than the civilian administration. Local people do not feel represented or protected.

How were three people shot dead in broad daylight? How did the indigenous community's homes and shops burn for hours without intervention? Who opened fire? Why were peaceful protesters treated like criminals? Why were masked attackers allowed to roam freely?

The state cannot ask for patience when people are dying. Authorities must answer how such violence happens again and again. Indigenous people are asked to obey Section 144 and respect law and order. But who will ensure law and order for them? How can the government call for peace while failing to protect those who are at risk?

The rape of a schoolgirl is a grave crime and the accused must be punished. Arresting one suspect is not enough to restore confidence when justice is often delayed. The protests could have been handled with dialogue and understanding. Instead, bullets were fired and homes were burned.

If no one takes accountability, then who will answer to the families of the dead?

The government must stop treating the CHT as a zone of constant surveillance and control. It must fully implement the Peace Accord, involve real community representatives in decision-making, ensure justice for the rape survivor, and conduct an impartial investigation into the deaths and arson. Peace cannot be achieved through power alone. It must come through trust, fairness, and truth.