Appeal to End Harassment of Civilians in Operation Devilheart Ban on Nafnadi Revoked Teknaf Jamaat Extends Gratitude

Daily Bijoy News Teknaf (Cox's Bazar) Correspondent:

The Teknaf Upazila branch of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami has expressed its gratitude to the relevant authorities for lifting the seven-and-a-half-year fishing ban in the Naf River, Teknaf, Cox's Bazar. This decision was conveyed during a meeting of the Upazila leadership held at the organization's temporary office in Hnila Station on Saturday, February 15, at 11 a.m. The meeting was chaired by Upazila Jamaat Ameer Maulana Rafiqullah and led by Secretary Maulana Forkan Ahmed. Present at the meeting were Upazila leaders as well as Jamaat representatives from all unions and municipalities.

In a joint statement to the media, Teknaf Upazila Jamaat Ameer Maulana Rafiqullah and Secretary Maulana Forkan Ahmed said, "The previous fascist government, under various pretexts, violated the fundamental and human rights of the people by imposing a ban on fishing in the Naf River for seven and a half years. This decision deprived the fishermen of their legal means of livelihood and subjected their families to inhumane conditions for an extended period. Now, responding to the demands of the people, the goodwill of the government, and the guidance of the Honorable Court, along with the efforts of the district administration, Upazila administration, BGB, Coast Guard, and other concerned authorities, we express our heartfelt thanks for lifting the ban on fishing in the Naf River from Teknaf to Shahparir Island, subject to certain conditions. At the same time, we strongly demand the immediate lifting of the fishing ban in the Hnila and Hoaikyong areas of the Naf River and urge the creation of opportunities for fishermen in these regions."

The Jamaat leaders also urged fishermen to resume fishing in areas where the ban has been lifted. They further mentioned, "Regarding the lifting of the ban in the Hnila and Hoaikyong regions of the Naf River, we have been informed by relevant authorities that the ban will be lifted gradually in these areas. Therefore, we urge the public to remain calm, patient, and peaceful as they continue to advocate for their rights. We also reiterate our demand to the concerned authorities for the immediate removal of the ban in the Hnila and Hoaikyong parts of the Naf River."

Additionally, the Jamaat leaders issued a statement expressing support for the nationwide 'Operation Devil Hunt,' aimed at suppressing terrorism, improving law and order, and ensuring justice for criminals. They also urged the administration to ensure that innocent people are not harassed during the operation and that the general public is not subjected to harm due to any instigators.

Daily Bijoy News/ Shamsul Alam Sharek