Jammu, Dec 11: A two-member team from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) visited Jammu to meet with Rohingya Muslims residing illegally in the city, officials reported on Wednesday. The visit by Senior Protection Officer Tomoko Fukumura and Protection Associate Ragini Trakroo Zutshi took place in the Kiryani Talab area of Narwal as part of ongoing discussions regarding basic utilities for these settlers.
The visit followed a recent dispute over the disconnection of water and electricity to the Rohingya community, despite their registration with the UNHCR. J&K Jal Shakti Minister Javed Rana stated on December 7 that water services would remain active until the central government decides on the deportation of the immigrants.
J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah emphasized the issue’s humanitarian aspect, urging the central government to resolve the Rohingya population’s status. He argued that while they remain in Jammu, they should not suffer from lack of resources or harsh weather conditions.
Dr. Farooq Abdullah, former Chief Minister and president of the National Conference, reiterated the responsibility of India’s government to ensure the Rohingyas’ access to basic amenities, attributing their presence to a decision by the central authorities.
On the political front, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has demanded a CBI investigation into the settlement of Rohingyas and Bangladeshis in Jammu, alleging a political conspiracy. They question the J&K government’s sympathetic stance, suggesting potential religious bias in the treatment of settlers.
Official figures cite around 14,000 Rohingyas residing illegally in Jammu. The UNHCR team could not meet with police officials and planned to return to Delhi on Wednesday to continue addressing the issue.
Original Source: https://theshillongtimes.com/2024/12/11/two-member-unhcr-team-meets-rohingyas-in-jammu/
Category : NATIONAL,News Alert
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Publish Date: 2024-12-11 15:14:00
