India Is Accused of Inhumane Deportation of Rohingya Refugees

Recent reports have emerged alleging that Indian authorities forcibly deported at least 40 Rohingya refugees, including women, children, and elderly individuals, by pushing them into the sea near the Myanmar border. This action has prompted the United Nations to call for an investigation into the incident.

The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights condemned the act as a serious violation of the international non-refoulement principle, which prohibits returning individuals to a country where they may face harm. The UN agency has appointed an expert to probe into what it called “unconscionable, unacceptable acts.” (apnews.com)

India is not a signatory to the 1951 Refugee Convention, and its legal framework does not recognize the principle of non-refoulement. However, this principle has acquired the status of customary international law, binding on all states, including India. (justsecurity.org)

Human rights organizations have also condemned the deportation. Refugees International called on the Indian government to immediately end the detention and forced deportation of Rohingya refugees to Myanmar, stating that returning them now places their lives at grave risk and violates India’s obligations under international law. (refugeesinternational.org)

The deportation of Rohingya refugees to Myanmar raises serious concerns about their safety and well-being. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, urging India to adhere to its international obligations and ensure the protection of vulnerable populations within its borders.