The Rohingya Centre UK (RCUK) expresses its profound concern regarding the deteriorating situation faced by Rohingya refugees in Jammu and Kashmir, India. Reports of arbitrary detention, forced deportation, and mistreatment of this vulnerable population—comprising genocide survivors who sought refuge from systematic persecution in Myanmar—are deeply troubling and demand urgent attention.
Independent report by Refugees International, The Azadi Project, and Fortify Rights have documented egregious violations of human rights, including physical assault, blindfolding, handcuffing, and the involuntary return of Rohingya refugees to Myanmar. These forced returns contravene international protection norms, particularly as the military regime responsible for the 2017 genocide remains in power, thereby exposing returnees to imminent risk of persecution, torture, or extrajudicial harm.
RCUK has received direct and urgent communications from Rohingya refugees residing in Jammu and Kashmir, who acknowledge the initial protection afforded by India but now endure a climate of persistent fear, intimidation, and insecurity. Despite possessing valid UNHCR-issued refugee documentation, numerous individuals including breastfeeding women, minors, and elderly persons are reportedly detained without adequate provision of food, water, legal representation, or due process guarantees.
Mohammed Amin, CEO of RCUK, stated:
“The Rohingya community in Jammu and Kashmir is confronted not merely with displacement, but with systemic dehumanisation. These are survivors of genocide whose rights must be unequivocally respected. The international community must not remain passive as these individuals are subjected to renewed trauma and exposed to life-threatening conditions. We call upon the Government of India to uphold its obligations under international law and urge global actors to take decisive measures to safeguard the dignity and safety of Rohingya refugees.”
RCUK Calls for the Following Urgent Actions:
To the Government of India:
- Cease immediately all forced deportations of Rohingya refugees.
- Ensure the prompt release of all individuals detained without lawful basis.
- Guarantee humane treatment in strict accordance with international human rights and refugee law standards.
To the Government of the United Kingdom:
- As a global advocate for human rights and international law, engage diplomatically with the Government of India to ensure compliance with refugee protection obligations.
- Utilise multilateral platforms, including the United Nations, to advance the cause of Rohingya protection.
- Direct the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) to prioritize this issue and demonstrate robust international solidarity with survivors of genocide.
To the United Nations and the International Community:
- Mobilise coordinated responses to prevent the forced return of vulnerable populations to countries where they face credible threats to their lives and freedoms.
To Humanitarian and Civil Society Organizations:
- Elevate the voices of affected Rohingya refugees through advocacy and reporting.
- Demand transparency and accountability from relevant authorities.
- Provide essential humanitarian assistance and legal aid to those detained or at risk.
The Rohingya Centre UK reiterates its unwavering commitment to truth, justice, and peace. Sustainable resolution of the Rohingya refugee crisis hinges on international cooperation, adherence to human rights obligations, and a steadfast dedication to nonviolence and human dignity. The current developments in Jammu and Kashmir transcend regional dynamics and constitute a critical human rights emergency requiring an immediate, coordinated global response.
For more information or schedule an interview, please contact at info@rcuk.org.uk