The administrative vacuum following the end of the extended tenure of the local bodies in the Chittagong Hill Tracts, elected as far back as in 1992, has been averted. A five-member Interim local government council for Khagrachhari headed by Samlran Dewan has been appointed as a makeshift arrangement pending elections to these in due course. We welcome the decision.

The local government councils, irrespective of the tumultuous and unsettled atmosphere in the hills, have definitely earned a degree of success in maintaining the development process as well as a semblance of harmony between communities there.

The functioning of local development administration in all the three CHT districts has gained in importance in the recent times due to the note of optimism in the air about a just settlement of the dispute in the hills, thanks to the forthright manner in which the present government has gone about resolving the crisis once for all. After years of distrust, disappointment and segregation, the way seems to have been finally paved for that elusive but highly desirable breakthrough envisioned in the peace deal between the PCJSS and the National Committee. Despite the occasional hiccups we believe the peace process should not be allowed to slip into the mire of procrastination. More so. when consensus has already been reached 'on all points' between the PCJSS and the National Committee. There is no doubt that the a permanent settlement is absolutely essential for healing this old and festering wound on our hills. A whole new horizon is likely to be opened by a permanent peace deal. This is key to the Integration of the tribal people In the process of natlon-bulldlng through the evolution of a culture of harmonious relationship between the Bengalee settlers and tribals. Longer it will take to come into being, more problems will be spawned.

From the signs available, the July 14 meeting between the two parties is going to be crucial. We would urge both sides to stay out of the pitfalls of avoidable delay and remain focused on wrapping up the deal on July 14. Let the first day of the third week of this month be a truly ground breaking day.