3,000 Bawm Take Refuge in India Amid Violence in Bandarban

Local Correspondent

Violence involving the Kuki-Chin National Front (KNF) and subsequent operations by joint forces have forced 3,000 members of the Bawm community in Bandarban to flee their homes and take refuge in Mizoram, India. Reverend Pakshiem Bawm, a leader of the community and a Christian pastor, said nine Bawm villages are now uninhabited.

Speaking at a rally organized by the Bandarban District Council on Thursday, Reverend Pakshiem highlighted the dire situation. He noted that fear and tension caused many from the Bawm community to leave their homes after clashes began between the KNF and law enforcement in late 2022. Although some displaced people returned when the situation improved, fresh incidents in 2023 escalated instability.

In April, armed robberies at bank branches in Ruma and Thanchi exacerbated the crisis. Joint forces linked the incidents to armed KNF members, locally known as the “Bawm Party.” Increased military operations, mass arrests, and restrictions on movement and food collection further compounded the hardships faced by the Bawm community, forcing many to abandon their villages.

Reverend Pakshiem identified nine affected villages, including Paykyang Para and Olondajan Para in Rowangchhari, Jurpi Para in Ruma, and Saizam Para in Bilaichhari. Residents of these villages have fled, leaving the areas deserted. Many faced additional dangers while fleeing, including capture by the Arakan Army in Myanmar.

The rally, which began at Bandarban’s Rajar Math and concluded at the Press Club, saw participation from diverse ethnic communities. Speakers included leaders from the Bawm Social Council, Mro Student Social Council, and human rights organizations. They expressed concerns over the economic impact, including disruptions in agricultural trade and damage to the local tourism industry.

Reverend Pakshiem urged the government to stabilize the region and appealed to KNF-affiliated members of the Bawm community to surrender and reintegrate into society. He called for the government’s full support in restoring peace and stability.

The event concluded with a cultural concert featuring artists from Chattogram and local performers, showcasing a message of harmony amid ongoing challenges.