Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The Rohingya, a stateless Muslim minority group primarily residing in Rakhine State, Myanmar, have faced decades of persecution, culminating in a large-scale exodus following the military crackdown in 2017. This crisis has presented a complex challenge for India, bordering Myanmar and hosting a significant Rohingya population. India’s response has been nuanced, balancing humanitarian concerns with strategic interests and domestic considerations. While acknowledging the humanitarian plight, India has largely maintained a policy of non-interference and limited formal recognition of Rohingya refugees, differing from the approach taken by some Western nations.
Background of the Rohingya Crisis
The Rohingya trace their origins to the Arakan region of Myanmar. They have historically faced discrimination and denial of citizenship, with the Myanmar government considering them illegal immigrants from Bangladesh. The 2017 crackdown, triggered by attacks on security forces, led to widespread violence, including reports of mass killings, sexual violence, and arson, forcing over 740,000 Rohingya to flee to Bangladesh. A smaller number sought refuge in India.
India’s Official Stand
India’s official stance has been characterized by:
- Non-Recognition as Refugees: India does not recognize Rohingya as refugees under the 1951 Refugee Convention and its 1967 Protocol, to which India is not a signatory.
- Deportation Attempts: The Indian government has attempted to deport Rohingya back to Myanmar, citing national security concerns and the potential for them being exploited by terrorist organizations. However, these attempts have faced legal challenges and international criticism.
- Humanitarian Assistance to Bangladesh: India has provided humanitarian aid to Bangladesh to support the Rohingya refugees there, demonstrating a commitment to addressing the crisis regionally. This aid includes food, medicine, and shelter materials.
- Support for Myanmar’s Internal Processes: India has consistently advocated for a peaceful resolution to the crisis within Myanmar’s internal political framework, emphasizing the need for stability in the region.
Reasons Behind India’s Policy
Several factors underpin India’s approach:
- National Security Concerns: Indian authorities have expressed concerns about the potential for Rohingya refugees to be radicalized or exploited by extremist groups, particularly given the proximity to regions with existing insurgencies.
- Strategic Relationship with Myanmar: India shares a strategic partnership with Myanmar, including cooperation on counter-terrorism and border security. Deportation attempts can be seen as a gesture of goodwill towards Myanmar.
- Domestic Political Considerations: The issue has become politically sensitive in India, with some political parties and sections of the public expressing concerns about the potential impact of a large refugee population on resources and social harmony.
- Lack of a Comprehensive Refugee Policy: India lacks a national refugee policy, leading to ad-hoc responses to refugee crises.
Evaluation of India’s Stand
India’s stand on the Rohingya issue is a complex balancing act. While concerns about national security and regional stability are legitimate, the policy of potential deportation raises serious humanitarian and human rights concerns.
| Positive Aspects | Negative Aspects |
|---|---|
| Regional stability through cooperation with Myanmar. | Violation of the principle of *non-refoulement* (not returning refugees to a place where they face persecution). |
| Humanitarian aid to Bangladesh alleviates some suffering. | Potential for exposing Rohingya to further violence and persecution in Myanmar. |
| Addresses domestic security concerns. | Damage to India’s international reputation as a responsible global actor. |
The Supreme Court of India has intervened in the matter, directing the government to ensure that any deportation process adheres to due process and international law. The court has also emphasized the need to distinguish between genuine refugees and illegal immigrants.
Conclusion
India’s response to the Rohingya crisis reflects a pragmatic approach prioritizing national interests and regional stability. However, a more humane and rights-based approach, coupled with a comprehensive national refugee policy, would enhance India’s standing on the global stage and align it with its constitutional values. Balancing security concerns with humanitarian obligations remains a crucial challenge for India in addressing this complex issue. A long-term solution requires addressing the root causes of the crisis in Myanmar and fostering a conducive environment for the safe and dignified return of the Rohingya.
Answer Length
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