Protect indigenous people's rights

Indigenous people presenting a dance at a cultural programme held at Gunigram High School in Godagari upazila, Rajshahi yesterday marking Karam festival. PHOTO: STAR

The demands were made at a day-long cultural programme, held at Gunigram High School playground yesterday marking 'Karam' festival.

The programme was organised by Uttar Bangla Adivasi Lahanti Network.

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Several hundred indigenous people including those from Orao, Santal and Pahari men and women from different areas joined the colourful programme.

It began through offering Puja to 'Orao' idol.

It was followed by a big colorful procession.

The processionists paraded different roads in Gunugaram village, participated by a large number of indigenous people including children.

A Karom fair and traditional songs and dances were the main attraction.

At the meeting, Adivasi Unnyon Sangstha (AUS) Executive Director Bhavagat Tudu read out a written statement in which the demands were amade.

Godagari Upazila Nirbahi Office (UNO) Hawlader Zakir Hossain was the chief guest while indigenous leader and 'king' of Digri community Raza Shiri Rampada Sarder was in the chair.

Jatiya Adivasi Parishad President Anail Marandi, indigenous leader Albart Saran and indigenous leader Rangit Sharan attended the programme.

The speakers demanded constitutional recognition of their rights and return of their lands grabbed allegedly by Bangalees and steps to ensure their right to education.

Bagaliees, NGO workers and some foreign national were also present at the daylong cultural programme.