Why Chakmas observe "Black Day" in 17th August?
17TH AUGUST 1947: BLACK DAY FOR CHAKMAS : Atul Chakma A Historical Overview of Injustice and Struggle The Partition of India in 1947 was a momentous and traumatic event, leading to the creation of India and Pakistan. Among the numerous communities affected, the Chakma community of the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) faced a unique set of challenges. Despite their efforts to become part of India, the Chakmas were ultimately incorporated into Pakistan, a decision they continue to mourn and protest. Efforts to Join India On 14th July 1947, the Chakma community submitted a memorandum to the Bengal Boundary Commission, expressing their desire to join India. The community hoped their predominantly Buddhist region, with 98.5% non-Muslims, would align with India rather than Muslim-majority Pakistan. However, on 16th July 1947, Cyril Radcliffe, Chairman of the Bengal Boundary Commission, was absent during the hearing of the Chittagong Hill Tracts' arguments. This abs...