Human Rights Watch has criticized India for expelling Rohingya refugees to Bangladesh and Myanmar without proper rights protections. The organization alleges that Indian authorities have arbitrarily detained hundreds of Rohingya refugees and mistreated some. This nationwide push against “illegal immigrants” reportedly began in May, targeting Rohingya and other Bengali-speaking Muslims. Despite being registered with the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), many refugees remain vulnerable to forced removal, as noted in a JURIST article.
Elaine Pearson, Asia director at Human Rights Watch, urged Indian authorities to stop the intimidation, arbitrary detention, and unlawful expulsions of Rohingya refugees. She called for an impartial investigation into allegations of ill-treatment and urged recognition of Rohingya as refugees. Pearson emphasized the importance of collaboration with the UN refugee agency to protect their rights.
A UN human rights expert expressed concerns about reports that Rohingya refugees were removed from an Indian navy vessel and abandoned in the Andaman Sea. UN Special Rapporteur for Myanmar, Tom Andrews, described this incident as “outrageous.” Furthermore, there are ongoing accusations against the Arakan Army for human rights abuses towards the Rohingya population.
Earlier this year, India’s Supreme Court dismissed a petition filed by two Rohingya refugees to halt further deportations, labeling it a “beautifully crafted story” lacking credibility. The court also refused to recognize the Rohingyas as refugees, referencing India’s non-membership in the 1951 Refugee Convention and the absence of a domestic legal framework for refugees. This refrain leaves many Rohingya in legal limbo despite global concerns over their well-being.
The Rohingya, a stateless Muslim ethnic group from Myanmar’s Rakhine State, have endured decades of persecution. Nearly one million fled to Bangladesh after a 2017 military campaign that the UN termed a “textbook example of ethnic cleansing.” A smaller number sought refuge in India, where their future remains uncertain amidst ongoing legal and social challenges.
This situation is part of a broader context involving India’s approach to refugees and migrants, as detailed in a recent report which emphasizes the need for a consistent and humane policy framework. The international community continues to watch developments closely, urging India to uphold its commitment to human rights and international standards.