RRAG warns of possible rebellion in Chittagong Hill Tracts over BNP’s quota remarks

The Rights and Risks Analysis Group (RRAG) has warned of potential unrest in the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) if Bangladesh National Party (BNP) president Tarique Zia proceeds with his recent declaration opposing quota provisions for indigenous communities.

In a communication addressed to Tarique Zia—who is widely expected to become Bangladesh’s next prime minister following the general elections scheduled for February 12, 2026—RRAG Director Suhas Chakma expressed serious concern over Zia’s remarks made during an interaction at Chittagong University on Sunday. Zia had reportedly stated that there should be “equal rights (sama adhikar) for all,” rejected quota benefits for indigenous peoples of the CHT, and asserted that hill tribes are Bangladeshis rather than “indigenous peoples.”

Chakma cautioned that the concept of equal rights is not absolute and must account for the vulnerabilities of marginalized communities. He noted that progressive constitutions and international human rights laws provide for affirmative action and positive discrimination to ensure substantive equality.

Citing legal provisions, Chakma pointed out that Article 29(3) of the Constitution of Bangladesh allows the government to provide reservations for backward groups in public employment. He also referred to Article 1(4) of the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination, ratified by Bangladesh, which permits special measures to protect disadvantaged communities. He added that the BNP itself had earlier enacted the Jatiya Sangsad (Reserved Women Seats) Election Act, 2004, reflecting this principle.

“With respect to the Adivasis of the CHT, Mr Zia cannot turn his back on the need for quota,” Chakma stated.

On the issue of recognition, Chakma highlighted that Clause 19 of the Sixth Schedule of the Income Tax Act, 2023—published in the official gazette on October 16, 2025—explicitly recognizes the Adivasis of the Chittagong Hill Tracts as “indigenous hillmen.”

He further warned that Bangladesh’s indigenous population, estimated at around one million out of a total population exceeding 180 million, would be severely disadvantaged without reservation policies. “If indigenous peoples are denied employment opportunities due to the absence of quota and their distinct identities are eroded through the repeal of protective laws, the Chittagong Hill Tracts will soon witness rebellion as a last resort,” Chakma cautioned.