Withdrawal of army camps
True, with a view to ending all hostilities and to establishing lasting peace, the present government has decided to withdraw army camps from the districts of the CHT region. A good step indeed! But there remain some questions - whether the indigenous people are fully prepared to enjoy a non-military but civilian control. Have all the anti-state elements living in and around surrendered to the law enforcing authorities with a pledge to living peacefully as bona fide citizens of Bangladesh without getting involved in any subversive activity?
Last month, I went to Bandarban on a personal visit where I was given such an impression as if it's not at all safe to visit the area alone or in small groups because the outlaws are still active who may attack or abduct people, especially foreigners. On two spots we had to pass through official check posts. On the way to Chimbuk Hill, the army camp recorded our vehicle number, kept driver's signature and asked about our identity plus how long would we be staying there.
There is another point which should also be taken into consideration, that is, even in the presence of army, a large number of Rohingya refugees have managed to get themselves enlisted in the voter list and in securing National ID Card. Infiltration of Rohingyas in different areas of Bangladesh is continuing. I think that the removal of army camps will leave a negative impact in this sector as well.
So, considering the above mentioned problems, the government should give a second thought to its decision and make sure that removal of army camps takes place phase by phase after reviewing the national intelligence agencies' survey and reports, of course in the greater interest of the nation.
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