Neighbouring country and fascists behind hills violence

Home Adviser Jahangir Alam Chowdhury yesterday alleged that the recent violence in Khagrachhari is being fuelled "by a neighbouring country and fascist groups".

"A vested quarter is trying to create unrest to disrupt the peaceful atmosphere of Durga Puja of the Hindu community. They attempted to prevent the festival from being celebrated with religious fervour and festivity. This vested group is behind the Khagrachhari incident," he said.

The home adviser was talking to reporters at the old Ramna Police Station after inaugurating the construction of five administrative/barracks for Dhaka Metropolitan Police.

A journalist asked whether firearms and money were being supplied to Khagrachhari from India.

In response, the adviser said, "He [the journalist] said the violence is being instigated by India or by fascist groups. We are taking all-out measures to ensure that they cannot be successful.

"I did not want to name the country, but our journalist brother mentioned that country's name.

"Some terrorists are firing shots from the hills, and these arms are coming from outside."

The overall situation in Khagrachhari is now "under control", the adviser said, calling on everyone to cooperate and not to block roads or cause disruptions during Durga Puja.