File photo

By Badal Noor

DHAKA, Aug 09, 2026 (BSS) - The Bangladesh Army and other law enforcement agencies are implementing a range of initiatives, including cultural programmes, marathons, sports events and harmony meetings involving different ethnic communities, to promote peaceful coexistence between Bangali residents and ethnic minorities in the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT).

Members of the Bangladesh Army, police, Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), Ansar and other law enforcement agencies are working jointly to maintain communal harmony and ensure stability in the three hill districts.

During recent visits to different areas of the CHT, BSS correspondents found that patrols and security operations have been intensified to maintain law and order.

On the occasion of the observance of the “International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples 2026” today, law enforcement agencies remain on alert in Bandarban, Rangamati and Khagrachhari to prevent any disruption or public inconvenience, officials told BSS.

Talking to BSS, Khagrachhari Deputy Commissioner Md Anwar Sadat said communal harmony in the region is being maintained through the concerted efforts of the administration, law enforcement agencies and people from different communities.

He said regular harmony meetings are held with representatives of various ethnic groups to strengthen mutual understanding and prevent minor misunderstandings from escalating into major unrest or unwanted incidents.

Representatives of social, religious and political groups, along with officials of relevant administrative bodies, participate in the meetings.

Police authorities also frequently organise cultural events to promote cultural exchange, coexistence and social cohesion.

Khagrachhari Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Md Mizanur Rahman said people from various ethnic communities live in the district and law enforcement agencies are playing a vital role in maintaining harmony.
Mentioning Khagrachhari as a tourist destination, he said security forces are working sincerely to ensure the safety of tourists and local residents.

“Efforts are also being made to preserve communal harmony through various religious and social celebrations,” he added.

Pathshala CHT Research Cell Coordinator Mohammad Kawsar Ullah told BSS that the Army is actively contributing to strengthening harmony in the region.

He said social and cultural activities should be expanded to bridge gaps among communities and reduces misunderstandings. 

“Above all, mutual respect and political goodwill between Bangali residents and ethnic minorities are essential for lasting peace and harmony,” he added.

Locals said armed clashes occasionally occur in the hills due to rivalries among regional groups seeking to establish supremacy, sometimes disrupting normal life and causing casualties also.

Khagrachhari Hill District Council Chairman Shefalika Tripura said the Army, BGB, police, Ansar and intelligence agencies are working sincerely to maintain harmony between Bangali residents and ethnic minorities.

The Army is also engaged in various welfare activities in remote areas, including providing free medical services and medicines, supporting education and transporting critically ill patients to hospitals.

In addition to medical teams, troops provide healthcare services during routine patrols in different localities, Shefalika Tripura added.