GUWAHATI, June 15: The Kuki-Chin Human Rights Organisation (KCHRO), an apex body of Kuki-Chin tribes on Friday urged the British Red Cross authority for humanitarian assistance and protection of the Kuki-Chin community in Bangladesh.

Since April 7, more than 100 Bawm people, including a pregnant woman and children, have been arrested as part of an ongoing military operation in villages in the Chittagong Hill Tracts of Bangladesh. This followed the alleged robbery of two banks and hostage-taking of a bank manager by armed group Kuki-Chin National Front (KNF) on April 2 and 3. The authorities assumed that the entire community of Bawm people were part of, or supporters of, the KNF.

The arrested are accused of alleged sedition under Section 15 of the Special Powers Act and for several other offences under the Penal Code, such as robbery and kidnapping.
All those arrested remain unnamed in the police documents referred to as “130-150 armed terrorist robbers.”

In a letter to BRC, KCHRO chairman Zingkhumlian and secretary Laltlansanga said: “The people of Kuki-Chin community are facing a dire state in Bangladesh. Recently, the Bangladesh Army carried out a series of arrests targeting innocent civilians, leading to widespread fear and insecurity in the country. Many of our people have been unjustly detained, leaving behind families and loved ones without any means of support. This blatant disregard for human rights has resulted in the separation of mothers from their children, including breastfeeding women which is both distressing and unacceptable.”

“As a result of this persecution, a significant number of Kuki-Chin individuals have been forced to flee their homes and seek refuge in Mizoram, while others remain displaced within Bangladesh and some are in the jungle, living in constant fear for their lives. Furthermore, approximately 136 Bawn villages are currently under threat, requesting urgent protection to ensure the safety and security of their residents,” the letter stated.

“In the light of this alarming situation, we urgently appeal to the British Red Cross to intervene on behalf of the Kuki-Chin community. Your organisation’s expertise in humanitarian assistance and commitment to upholding human rights makes you a vital ally in our efforts to alleviate the suffering of our people and ensure their safety and well-being,” the letter also said.

“We humbly request the British Red Cross consider providing emergency aid and protection to the affected individuals and villages, as well as advocating for the release of those unjustly detained by the Bangladesh Army. Your prompt action in this matter would be greatly appreciated and would undoubtedly make a significant difference in the lives of in need,” the KCHRO said.

The rights body urged the British Red Cross to provide emergency aid and assistance to displaced Kuki-Chin individuals, including essential food, shelter and medical supplies.
The organization urged the British Red Cross to advocate for the protection of 137 Brawm villages under threat working in collaboration with relevant authorities to ensure their safety and security.

The KCHRO further urged the British Red Cross to condemn the arbitrary arrests and violation of human rights perpetrated by the Bangladesh Army and call for the immediate release of innocent detainees, particularly women and children.

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