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| Political divide over Rohingya immigrants in Jammu | | BJP calls for immediate deportation; NC, Cong advocate humane approach | |
Early Times Report
Jammu, Dec 11: Political parties in Jammu and Kashmir are sharply divided over the presence of foreigners, including Rohingyas and Bangladeshis, settled in the Jammu region and nearby areas. While the BJP has called for their immediate deportation, parties like the National Conference (NC) and Congress advocate for a humane approach to handling the issue.
Amid this ongoing debate, a two-member team from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) recently visited the Kiryani Talab area of Narwal in Jammu city to meet with Rohingya refugees.
The team, comprising Senior Protection Officer Tomoko Fukumura and Protection Associate Ragini Trakroo Zutushi, interacted with Rohingya Muslims and some local residents. However, their attempt to meet police officials was unsuccessful, and the team returned to Delhi.
The visit gains significance as discussions intensify over the settlement of these immigrants. Recently, local authorities, following directions from security agencies, proposed cutting power and water supplies to areas housing these foreigners. However, Jammu and Kashmir Jal Shakti Minister Javed Ahmed Rana clarified that water supply to these slums would continue until the central government makes a decision on deportation.
The BJP has taken a hardline stance, with its chief spokesperson, Sunil Sethi, demanding the immediate removal of Rohingyas and Bangladeshis. Describing them as "illegal intruders" and "supporters of anti-national elements," Sethi alleged their presence poses a serious threat to regional security and law and order. He further accused the immigrants of partici Amid this ongoing debate, a 2-member team from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) recently visited Jammu city to meet Rohingya refugees.
The visit gains significance as discussions intensify over the settlement of these immigrants.
The BJP has taken a hardline stance, with its chief spokesperson, Sunil Sethi, demanding the immediate removal of Rohingyas and Bangladeshis.
Former Chief Minister and NC president Dr. Farooq Abdullah urged for humane treatment of Rohingyas.
Sethi also criticized former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for his humanitarian approach, asserting that "a misplaced sense of humanitarianism" should not compromise national security.
Former Chief Minister and NC president Dr. Farooq Abdullah urged for humane treatment of Rohingyas, emphasizing that they should not be left to suffer from hunger and cold. He called on the central government to clarify its stance, suggesting either deportation or proper safeguards for their stay. Dr. Abdullah stressed that as long as the refugees remain in Jammu, the government has a responsibility to provide basic amenities like water and electricity.
Echoing similar sentiments, J&K Congress chief Tariq Hameed Karra called for adherence to international conventions on refugee issues. He described the curtailment of basic amenities as a "criminal act" and emphasized the need for a lawful approach to dealing with the migrants.
Government data reveals that over 13,700 foreigners, primarily Rohingyas and Bangladeshis, are settled in Jammu and other parts of J&K. Their population saw a significant increase of over 6,000 between 2008 and 2016. In a 2021 verification drive, police identified 270 Rohingyas, including women and children, living illegally in Jammu city and placed them in a holding center in Kathua.
The growing population of immigrants and the associated security concerns continue to stir debate among political parties, reflecting the broader challenge of balancing humanitarian considerations with regional stability. |
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