Khagrachari Correspondent, CHT News
Thursday, April 2, 2026
Tension is rising in Khagrachari after allegations
surfaced that the district administration shut down at least 12 shops run by
indigenous residents in the Alutila tourist area, citing a lack of proper
documents. The move has left many locals frustrated and concerned, with the
issue quickly spreading on social media.
According to local sources, a team led by Deputy
Commissioner Md. Anwar Sadat carried out a drive around 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday,
April 1. During the operation, officials asked shop owners whether they had
valid documents and if they owned the land where their shops were located.
Shopkeepers say the authorities then ordered the
closure of several small businesses, claiming they did not have the required
paperwork. All of the affected shop owners belong to the Tripura community.
Witnesses said that when locals tried to understand
why the shops were being shut down, the Deputy Commissioner told them the
businesses had been set up illegally and could not continue operating without
proper authorization.
However, those who lost their shops tell a different
story. Many say they come from financially struggling families and had no
opportunity to secure space inside the main tourist complex. Instead, they
built small roadside shops nearby and relied on them as their only source of
income.
“We were given no warning,” one shopkeeper said. “No time to prepare, no alternative. Overnight, our only way of earning was taken away.”
Several affected families described the decision as
deeply unfair, even calling it a quiet attempt to cut off their livelihoods.
The issue has also sparked debate online. Some users
questioned why similar checks are not carried out across all businesses in
Khagrachari town, where, they claim, many shops also lack proper documentation.
Others have called on the administration to make licensing records public to
ensure transparency.
The timing has added to the anger. With a major
indigenous festival approaching, many see the move as especially harsh. Local
residents and shopkeepers are now urging authorities to review the decision and
find a more balanced solution.
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