Today, Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) Affairs Adviser Supradip Chakma today spoke at CHT Complex on Bailey Road in the capital. Photo : BSS

DHAKA, April 12, 2025 (BSS) - Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) Affairs Adviser Supradip Chakma today said the government is actively working to for development of the hill districts aiming to foster economic self-reliance and secure the rights of all communities in the region.

"This government is committed to upholding the rights of all citizens. To help attain economic reliance for everyone, we’re undertaking various initiatives. We’re also working to make sure that none in the CHT is deprived," he said.

The adviser made this remark after a procession in the city marking the Baisuk, Sangrai, Biju, Changkran, Bishu, and Sanglan festivals. The procession started from CHT Complex on Bailey Road in the capital and ended at Ramna Park through floating flowers in the lake.

The adviser said, “We celebrate three joyful days in the hills with great enthusiasm. This event has been arranged to bring the spirit of the Biju festival to you.”

“The flowers we have floated today symbolize our hopes for a bright future and our commitment to maintain harmony within our community," he said.

Celebration of the festival in the capital for the first time in presence of the people from diverse culture, community and religion carries a significant message, he said.

“This was not possible in Dhaka ever before and it was never imagined,” he said adding the strength of the CHT people lies in their rich diversity.

The colorful mosaic of the CHT represents the strength of Bangladesh also. We want to make this strength even greater by standing together, keeping hand in hand, he said.

CHT affairs ministry secretary Md. Abdul Khaleque said today is a special day for the Chakmas, Marmas, Tripuras, Tanchangyas, Khumis and others living in the CHT region.

The spontaneous participation of the people of the CHT in today's event has energized and inspired us, he added.

Biju is one of the major joyous festivals of the Chakma community, with “Phul Biju” celebrated on April 12. It is believed that by floating flowers, the sorrows of the past year are washed away, making way for happiness, peace, and prosperity in the New Year.

The other programmes of the celebration of Phul Biju included, flower floating, and cultural performances.

Leaders and members of small ethnic group organizations based in Dhaka and senior officials of the CHT affairs ministry attended the program.