Ukhia: Allegations of attack on Buddhist temple, vandalism of Buddha statues
Collected Photo
An alleged attack has been carried out on a Buddhist temple in Ukhia Upazila of Cox's Bazar, along with vandalism of Buddha statues and attacks on the homes of at least four families of the Tanchangya community.
Locals say, the disruption in public peace stemmed from a long-standing land dispute. Tension is prevailing in the area following the incident. The affected families have reported feeling insecure and have called for administrative intervention.
According to locals, the incident occurred on Friday around 4:30 PM in the Chenchari area of Ward No. 7, Jalia Palong Union in the upazila.
The victims and local leader Sardar Mong Chowdhury alleged that a group of about 200 people, led by local resident Nurul Haq, arrived at the scene due to a land dispute that has been ongoing since 2007. He claims that the attackers carried out the vandalism at the Chenchari Buddhist temple in the presence of the Forest Department officials. At least three Buddha statues in the temple were damaged. At the same time, the homes of at least four families from the Tanchangya community were also attacked.
Mong Chowdhury said, "We are now suffering from extreme insecurity. We could be attacked again at any time. There is also a fear of loss of life."
Several photos obtained after the incident show damaged Buddha statues scattered inside the Chenchari Buddhist temple. However, the authenticity of these photos could not be independently verified.
The Chakma-Tanchangya Student Council (Ukhia-Teknaf) has strongly condemned the incident. Nepal Chakma, the organization's General Secretary, stated that such an attack on a Buddhist temple is highly reprehensible. He demanded the swift arrest of those involved, exemplary punishment, and ensuring the security of indigenous families living in the area.
Concern has also been expressed by Kanon Barua Bishal, General Secretary of the Cox's Bazar District Buddhist Purnima Celebration Council.
"Cox's Bazar has long been known for religious tolerance and harmony. An incident like this is contrary to that tradition," he said. He called for legal action against those involved and effective steps to prevent such incidents from recurring in the future.
