A human chain and demonstration were held for the fifth consecutive day in Shyamnagar, Satkhira, demanding an end to bandit activity in the Sundarbans, the rescue of abducted fishermen and woodcutters (bawalis), and guaranteed security for forest-dependent workers.
On Sunday, the final day of the programme, coastal residents and forest dwellers staged a protest by burning fishing nets. The protesters subsequently suspended their programme after submitting a memorandum to the Shyamnagar Upazila Nirbahi Officer and the Officer-in-Charge (OC) of the local police station, demanding the launch of operations against the bandits within 48 hours.
The human chain and demonstration were addressed by Salauddin Liton, convener of the Satkhira District Krishak Dal and chief coordinator of the movement; Anisur Rahman, a fisherman; Gazi Shah-Alam, a BNP leader; and Rabiul Islam Liton, among others.
Speakers said that to enter the Sundarbans to harvest fish, crabs, and honey, workers are forced to pay large sums of extortion money to various bandit groups.
Fishermen remarked that while paying a single gang was sufficient in the past, they are now forced to pay multiple gangs. Some demand Tk70,000 to Tk80,000, while some other demand over Tk100,000 in extortion.
After paying the extortion money, fishermen are issued tokens that must be shown to enter the forest. They further noted that paying multiple gangs consumes a major portion of their earnings from fish and crab harvesting.
As a result, many are forced to borrow money to make ends meet. Although the dried-fish season is approaching, many are refraining from entering the forest out of fear of bandit, leaving their families in severe hardship.
Shyamnagar Upazila Nirbahi Officer Shamsuzzahan Kanok said that the issue of security in the Sundarbans will be discussed at the upazila law and order committee meeting involving representatives from the Naval Police, Coast Guard, BGB, and local police. He added that the memorandum submitted by the protesters will be seriously considered.
