The Circle Chief and Headman/Karbari System is a unique traditional system which is a distinct characteristic of CHT region. The region is divided into three circles and these are controlled by three circle chiefs, which is actually a form of Monarchy. In fact, these traditional systems are the main institution of the revenue and judiciary system. For each circle, there is a circle chief who is considered as Raja of the concerned circle. There are three circles named – Chakma circle, Mong circle and Bomang circle. Although the circles are named according to the certain ethnic groups, the jurisdiction is determined according to mouza areas. Mouza is the grass-root revenue unit. Chakma circle is consisted of 177 mouzas which are situated mostly in Rangamati Hill District and a few in Khagrachari Hill District. This is the largest circle among the three. Bomang Circle consists of 109 mouzas which are situated mostly in Bandarban and a few in Rangamati Hill District. The Smallest circle is Mong circle and is consisted of 83 mouzas from Khagrachari Hill District. Each mouza is placed under a Headman (or Dewan) appointed by the concerned Circle Chief, in concurrence with Deputy Commissioner. Furthermore, each mouza is sub-divided into smaller units called Para or Adam, which actually contains individual village settlement. Such each village is placed under a Karbari, who is appointed by the mouza Headman with the concurrence of the concerned Chief.
According to the CHT Regulations 1900, the Headman was made responsible for the collection of taxes from the people in his/her mouza on behalf of the Circle Chief. Apart from the collection of taxes, the three Circle Chiefs are empowered to resolve the conflicts and dispense justice in their Raja Courts, in accordance with the customary laws, usage and traditions of Hill people under their jurisdiction. Correspondingly, the Headman has given the authority to adjudicate disputes among the people living in his/her mouza jurisdiction.
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