chtnews.com
News No. 45/2010, March 08, 2010
The army and police in Khagrachari yesterday dismantled a stage and a canopy set up to hold a rally in observance of the 100th International Women’s Day, alleged Kanika Dewan, General Secretary of the Hill Women’s Federation.
“Initially the local administration told us that we could hold a rally and bring out a procession to mark the International Women’s Day and our organisation’s 22th founding anniversary.” Kanika said.
HWF took preparations to make their programme a success.
“But the army and police came and dismantled the stage at Swanirbhor, where the rally was scheduled to be held today. It was at 7:30pm. I immediately phoned the DC who said he was unable to allow us to hold a separate rally for the International Women’s Day.” she said.
“Either you join us in the International Women’s Day rally or go to hell; there is no permission for you to hold a separate rally,” Kanika quoted DC as telling her.
She then contacted Jotindra Lal Tripura MP who did not even know that today is International Women’s Day.
“However, he advised me to hold the programme indoor and requested me not to take out any procession.” she said.
Kanika said they will organise a discussion today at Tikadar Samiti Bhavan at Swanirbhor instead of holding a rally.
She criticized the undemocratic behaviour of the Deputy Commissioner and urged the government to restore full democratic rights of the people.
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