India expels Myanmar refugees who escaped the 2021 coup.
In Guwahati, India, the Indian government recently sent back the initial batch of Myanmar refugees who had found refuge there since the 2021 military coup. The state's top minister revealed this news, but indicated that more deportations might take place in the future. This decision follows weeks of trying to deal with the issue, which was complicated by clashes between Myanmar's rebel forces and the ruling junta.
Thousands of Myanmar residents and hundreds of troops had fled across the border to Indian territory since the coup, sparking concern in New Delhi. In response, India has proposed building a fence along its border with Myanmar and ending its visa-free movement policy.
Around 77 people are slated to be deported by the neighboring state of Manipur, which experienced at least 220 deaths since ethnic strife erupted in May of the previous year. According to Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, the first phase of the deportation process is now complete. And, in relation to this, Singh disclosed that one Indian national was also repatriated by Myanmar.
While India is not a signatory to the 1951 UN Convention on Refugees, which outlines the rights of refugees and the responsibilities of states to safeguard them, and doesn't have domestic laws shielding refugees, Singh stated that expulsions began in March. Nevertheless, Indian security officials claimed that these efforts were impeded due to the combat taking place in Myanmar. The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party’s PM Narendra Modi is currently pursuing an uncommon third term in the current national elections and his administration has reportedly blamed the refugee influx for the unrest that has occurred in Manipur.
Read also:
- This will change in December
- Dikes withstand water masses so far - Scholz holds out the prospect of help
- Fireworks and parties ring in 2024 - turn of the year overshadowed by conflicts
- Attacks on ships in the Red Sea: shipping companies avoid important trade route
The Indian government's decision to deport Myanmar refugees has sparked concern not just in India, but also across the world. Despite not being a signatory to the 1951 UN Convention on Refugees, Asia has a significant role in addressing this global issue.
Source: edition.cnn.com
