Home ›› 11 Apr 2020 ›› World Biz
The recent attacks on mobile towers in Khagrachari and Rangamati by the United People's Democratic Front (UPDF), led by Prasit Bikash Khisa, are not just acts of vandalism but a direct assault on the fundamental rights of the people in the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT). By targeting critical telecommunications infrastructure, the UPDF has not only disrupted communication networks but has also violated the basic human rights of thousands of people, plunging entire communities into a state of fear and helplessness.
On January 22, the UPDF allegedly vandalized and looted 10 mobile towers belonging to Robi, a private telecom operator, in various upazilas of Khagrachari and Rangamati. These coordinated attacks left the affected areas without power and mobile connectivity, cutting off thousands of users from essential communication services. The militants’ demand for extortion money and their subsequent actions highlight a disturbing trend of using violence and intimidation to achieve their goals. This is not just a criminal act; it is an attack on the very fabric of modern society, where access to communication is a lifeline for education, healthcare, business, and emergency services.
The disruption of mobile services has far-reaching consequences. In today’s interconnected world, mobile networks are not just a luxury but a necessity. They enable people to stay connected with their loved ones, access vital information, and seek help in emergencies. By cutting off these services, the UPDF has not only caused widespread inconvenience but has also put lives at risk. Imagine a patient unable to call for an ambulance, a student unable to access online resources, or a business owner unable to communicate with clients. These are not hypothetical scenarios but the harsh realities faced by the people in the affected areas.
Moreover, the UPDF’s actions amount to digital fascism. By leveraging technology as a weapon, they are suppressing and controlling the region’s population, fostering insecurity and fear. Access to communication is a basic human right, and its denial is a violation of freedom of expression and the right to information. The UPDF’s threats to expand such activities if their demands are not met further exacerbate the situation, creating an environment of uncertainty and dread.
The impact of these attacks goes beyond the immediate disruption of services. They undermine peace and stability in the CHT, a region that has long struggled with conflict and marginalization. By targeting critical infrastructure, the UPDF is not only harming the local population but also setting a dangerous precedent for other militant groups. Such actions erode trust in institutions and create a sense of lawlessness, making it even more challenging to achieve lasting peace in the region.
It is imperative that the government and law enforcement agencies take swift and decisive action to address this issue. The UPDF’s extortion demands and violent tactics cannot be tolerated. The authorities must ensure the safety of telecom infrastructure and hold those responsible for these attacks accountable. At the same time, efforts must be made to address the underlying issues that fuel such militancy, including poverty, inequality, and lack of opportunities in the CHT.
The international community and human rights organizations must also speak out against these violations. The UPDF’s actions are not just a local issue but a matter of global concern. In an era where digital connectivity is increasingly recognized as a fundamental right, attacks on telecommunications infrastructure must be condemned in the strongest terms.
The UPDF’s attacks on mobile towers are a blatant violation of human rights and digital freedom. They highlight the urgent need for stronger measures to protect critical infrastructure and ensure the safety and well-being of the people in the CHT. The right to communication is non-negotiable, and any attempt to deny it must be met with resolute action. Only by addressing these challenges can we hope to build a more inclusive, peaceful, and connected society.
