Rangamati Correspondent, CHT News
Monday, 9 February 2026
Members of the JSS Santu Group are allegedly
obstructing residents of several villages in Subalong Union of Barkal Upazila
and Longadu Union of Longadu Upazila in Rangamati from attending an election
campaign rally in support of Pahel Chakma, the sole independent candidate in
the Rangamati constituency. They are also accused of issuing death threats to
villagers.
According to local sources, on Monday (9 February
2026), a group of armed militants led by JSS Santu Group commander Dipta Chakma
prevented residents of several villages—namely Chilak Dak, Hajachara,
Shukorchari, Panchari, Maun Adam Panchari, Digholchari, Rupban, Gurukheiye,
Petyechari, North and South Ukchari, Shilchari, Hajachara Tanyachari in
Subalong Union, as well as North and South Barakalak, Paglichara, and Perachara
villages in Longadu Union—from attending the election campaign rally held in
support of independent candidate Pahel Chakma.
The militants allegedly threatened villagers, warning
that if they attended the rally, they would not be able to return home in the
evening and would be dead.
Local residents have expressed anger over such threats
by Santu Group militants.
It is noteworthy that in the upcoming 13th National
Parliamentary Election scheduled to be held on 12 February, Pahel Chakma is
contesting as the sole independent candidate in the Rangamati–299 constituency,
with the football symbol.
Meanwhile, the JSS Santu Group is reportedly
supporting Dipen Dewan, the candidate of the BNP—described as a party
detrimental to the hill people—and is allegedly issuing threats and creating
obstacles for the public.
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