Human Rights Forum Bangladesh today demanded exemplary punishment of the people involved in the yesterday’s arson attacks on the houses of Chakma community in Rangamati’s Longadu.

The coalition of 19 human rights organisations, in a statement signed by its convener Sheepa Hafiz, also expressed deep concerns and condemnation over the attacks and urged the authorities concerned to ensure the safety of the indigenous community.

“The basic human rights have been severely violated through the shameful attack on the hilly people. We demand proper trial of the perpetrators and rehabilitation and compensation for the victims,” it said.

Bangalee settlers unleashed a series of arson attacks on the Chakma community yesterday over the death of a local Jubo League leader.

Indigenous people said over 200 homes and shops were vandalised and burned to ashes after they were looted, although an official of Longadu upazila put the figure at 110.