CHT Affairs Minister Dipen Dewan today spoke as the chief guest at the traditional Sangrai water festival (Jolkeli) of the Marma community at Ching Hla Mong Mari Stadium in Rangamati today. Photo: BSS

RANGAMATI, April 17, 2026 (BSS) - Chattogram Hill Tracts (CHT) Affairs Minister Dipen Dewan today said the hill regions will advance alongside the plains through balanced development under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.

"The Prime Minister is very sincere about the development of the hill people," he said, urging all to uphold their roots and cultural identity while embracing the spirit of 'Sobar Agey Bangladesh' (Bangladesh First).
 
He made the remarks while inaugurating the traditional Sangrai water festival (Jolkeli) of the Marma community at Ching Hla Mong Mari Stadium in Rangamati this afternoon as the chief guest.
 
Praising the Marma community, the minister said they have preserved their cultural heritage despite various challenges and called for protecting other endangered cultures in the hills.
 
He said Sangrai, the water festival, is no longer confined to the Marma community but has become a festival of harmony among all ethnic groups, reflecting the country's non-communal spirit.
 
State Minister for Land and CHT Affairs Barrister Mir Mohammad Helal Uddin attended the function as guest of honour and stressed unity beyond religion and ethnicity.
 
A large number of local and foreign tourists joined the festivities marked by traditional attire and water splashing, symbolizing the cleansing of past sorrows and welcoming the New Year.