Kheyang woman’s alleged rape, murder sparks protest in Khagrachhari

Students draw attention to the rise in rape incidents across the country, and speak out about fears for their safety

Students in Khagrachhari have held a protest rally condemning the alleged rape and subsequent murder of a Kheyang woman in Bandarban’s Thanchi.

The rally began at noon on Tuesday at the Khagrachhari Government High School grounds and proceeded through Court Road, ending at Shapla Chattar.

Kabita Chakma, a second-year honours student at Khagrachhari Government College, said: "A Kheyang woman was raped and then murdered. She was a mother of three, including an 18-month-old child. Just a month ago, we held a protest in Kaukhali over the rape of a Marma girl. Today we are raising our voices for the Kheyang woman."

She continued, "Incidents of rape are increasing across the country. We are not safe anywhere. When will the violence and oppression against indigenous women end?”

The 29-year-old woman's body was recovered on Monday afternoon from a forested area in Tindu Union. She was a resident of a nearby village.

Locals said she had gone to the hills in the morning for Jhum farming, but when she did not return by the afternoon, they began searching for her.

They discovered marks in the forest, which led them to her bloodied body deep in the jungle. Authorities were immediately alerted.

Witnesses reported signs of severe physical assault on the body, including evidence that her eyes had been removed. They believe the woman was raped before being killed.

Another student, Ukyanu Marma, called for the perpetrators to be identified and punished.

“Why are we still silent?” Ukyanu asked at the rally demanding justice for the victim.