The United Nations has voiced serious concerns over reports suggesting that Indian authorities have been deporting Rohingya refugees under horrifying conditions, including incidents of individuals being thrown into the Andaman Sea close to Myanmar, the very country from which they fled due to persecution and violence.
Tom Andrews, the U.N. special rapporteur for human rights in Myanmar, described the situation as "outrageous," emphasizing the need for thorough investigation and accountability from the Indian government. He urged Indian officials to halt the "inhumane and life-threatening treatment" of Rohingya refugees, warning against their forced return to dangerous environments in Myanmar.
This alarming situation comes at a time of heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, following accusations of Pakistan's involvement in a terrorist attack that recently resulted in over two dozen Indian fatalities. As a response, India's government has implemented various punitive measures, including the expulsion of Pakistani nationals and a crackdown on Muslim communities within India.
Authorities in several Indian states, particularly Gujarat—Prime Minister Narendra Modi's home turf—and Rajasthan, have begun mass sweeps to detain individuals labeled as “Rohingya” or “Bangladeshi” refugees. This classification often extends to any Muslim migrants, escalating fears of discrimination and prejudice against these marginalized communities.
The Indian government has not yet responded publicly to the allegations, leaving the calls for accountability and transparency in this deeply troubling humanitarian issue unresolved.
