An indefinite road blockade in Sajek, located in Rangamati’s Baghaichhari upazila, entered its fifth day on Monday, disrupting tourism and bringing tourism-dependent businesses to a complete standstill.
The popular Sajek Valley remains closed to visitors as administrative authorities seek to resolve the ongoing crisis through formal discussions with local community leaders.
A meeting between a newly formed three-member committee and local headmen and karbaris commenced at the Baghaichhari Upazila Parishad at 11am.
The protest action was jointly organised by the Sajek Public Rights Protection Committee and the Sajek Karbari Association. The groups are pressing five core demands, including the withdrawal of armed members of the Parbatya Chattagram Jana Samhati Samiti (JSS), led by Santu Larma, from Sajek and enhanced security for residents.
Additional demands include punishment for those responsible for attacks on demonstrators, the withdrawal of legal cases, compensation for traders affected by vandalism and looting at Ujho Bazar, and medical coverage for injured individuals.
Protesters also called for the withdrawal of army and police personnel from Ujho Bazar, an immediate cessation of violence, extortion, and harassment in the area, and a halt to arrests and searches targeting protesters' homes and businesses.
The talks followed an emergency meeting held on Sunday at the Rangamati deputy commissioner’s office, where officials decided to establish the three-member negotiation committee.
The ongoing suspension of tourist visits has sparked widespread concern over severe financial losses for local resorts, cottages, transport operators, and auxiliary businesses.
The Rangamati district administration previously announced on October 22 that tourism in Sajek would remain suspended until further notice.
Although active protesters were absent from several roadway points, law enforcement personnel maintained patrols across key strategic locations.
Rangamati Superintendent of Police Muhammad Abdur Rakib stated that the situation remained under control and that active efforts were continuing to resolve the dispute through dialogue.
No final decision regarding the protesters' demands or the immediate withdrawal of the blockade had been officially announced by Monday afternoon.
Why it matters
The prolonged road blockade and tourism suspension in Sajek threaten regional stability, local livelihoods, and public security in Rangamati.