Struggling Against Exclusion : Adibasi in Chittagong Hill Tracts, Bangladesh

Abstract: This study provides an overview of social policy and poverty among ethnic minorities (Adibasi)in Bangladesh,with a special focus on the Chakma people belonging to the Sonai and Mayni localities,situated in the Chittagong Hill Tracts(CHT).The main argument in this thesis concerns their struggle against exclusion which is an indispensable part of policy studies.In my work,I concentrate on the historical processes and the current situation among the Adibasi,characterized by social exclusion, deprivation and poverty.Furthermore,I discuss the peace process,and attempts to create integration and cohesion in the CHT.An integral part of my work consists of qualitative and quantitative data obtained from nine different hamlets (para) inhabited by the Adibasi.The findings are used to show how the Adibasi have been deprived of their land,emphasizing in particular the arrival of settlers,army occupation,as well as various government projects initiated during different regimes.In addition,I discuss the conflicts that have risen due to land grabbing,forced migration and displacement.