Constitutional recognition to rights demanded

Indigenous people from 16 northern districts brought out a colourful procession in Dinajpur town yesterday as part for International Indigenous Day programmes. PHOTO: STAR

Several thousand indigenous people from Dinajpur and other districts gathered in the town to participate in various programmes marking the day.

The day was observed in a festive mood through various programmes including rally, cultural presentation and discussion meeting.

Tap here to add The Daily Star as a trusted source

At around 12 noon, they brought out a colorful procession with banners and festoons in hand and marched the streets of Dinajpur. The procession was inaugurated by Deputy Commissioner Surut Zaman.

After the procession, a big rally was held on the premises of Santal Education Center in the town. Dinajpur Municipal Chairman Safiqul Haque Chutu was present as a chief guest while Nirmal Shoren was the special guest at the rally.

At the rally, indigenous leaders put forward a 16-point demand to the government which included constitutional recognition to their rights, right to education through their mother tongue, end to alleged encroachment of their lands in different areas by Bangalees and their representation in the Jatiya Sangsad.

Speakers at the rally said Bangladesh has a very small community of indigenous people. They wan to live in peace with Bangalees. But vested quarters at places occupy their lands. The government can easily stop this.

After the rally, a memorandum addressed to the Prime Minister was handed over to the Deputy Commissioner.

They also called upon all indigenous communities in the country to unite to realise their demands.

The rally was presided by Victor Lakra and addressed by, maong others, Moazzem Hossain, Orium Tudu, Shandha Malo, Dr. Diezandra Nath Roy and Bhagabata Tudu.