Minister for Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs Dipen Dewan -File Photo

DHAKA, March 25, 2026 (BSS) - Minister for Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs Dipen Dewan called upon all communities both in hill and plain areas to remain united to protect the country’s independence and sovereignty and building a corruption-free modern Bangladesh.

He made the call while taking part at a discussion organized on the occasion of a post-Eid reunion at the conference room of the Ministry of Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs at the secretariate today.

Highlighting the diverse culture of the hill tracts, the minister said that the Chittagong Hill Tracts region is somewhat different and sensitive compared to other parts of the country. 

Referring to the colorful new year celebration scheduled for April 12, he said that instead of using only the term ‘Boisabi,’ this year’s event will be represented by all ethnic communities of the hills with their own identities.

He added that initiatives will be taken to celebrate major social festivals of all communities, including Biju, Sangrai, Boisu, Bishu, in an inclusive manner.

At the meeting, the minister stressed on eliminating unemployment in the hill tracts, accelerating government recruitment processes, and properly filling vacant posts. 

He also expressed his commitment to building a prosperous Bangladesh by ensuring equality, human dignity, and social justice under the leadership of Prime Minister Tareq Rahman.

Referring to March 25, which is observed as the Genocide day, he said on this day in 1971, the Pakistani occupation forces carried out one of the most brutal killings in history under ‘Operation Searchlight’ against unarmed Bengalis. 

He paid deep respect to the memory of the unarmed civilians, who were brutally killed on this day.

State Minister for Land and Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs Mir Mohammad Helal Uddin attended the event as a special guest. 

Secretary of the Ministry Mohammad Mizanur Rahman and other senior officials were also present at the meeting.