Khagrachhari tense as restrictions stretch into third consecutive day

Section 144 restriction has remained in force for a third consecutive day in Khagrachhari town, Sadar municipality and Guimara Upazila following unrest over the alleged rape of a Marma schoolgirl. Although no fresh violence was reported on Monday morning, Guimara continued to see a tense calm after clashes on Sunday left three people dead. Vehicular movement between Khagrachhari, Dhaka and Chattogram resumed from Monday noon after the blockade was partially lifted. Road links to Rangamati, however, remain cut off due to the shutdown enforced by Jummo Chhatra Janata, while connections with nine other Upazilas including Dighinala, Panchari and Matiranga are also suspended. Only emergency services are being allowed. The suspension of road transport for three days has left residents struggling....