Police launched a sweeping crackdown on the support system for Rohingyas across six districts of the Jammu region namely Jammu, Doda, Kishtwar, Ramban, Rajouri, and Poonch. Fourteen FIRs were filed, with seven in the Jammu district alone, resulting in the arrest and detention of nearly 50 individuals, including seven married couples. Reports suggest that deportation of these illegal immigrants may be initiated later. This marks the first instance of a major coordinated police operation against those aiding the settlement of Rohingyas in Jammu by facilitating essential documents like Aadhaar, ration, and voter cards, providing accommodation, and assisting in utility connections.
The arrests also revealed the Rohingyas’ efforts to integrate into the local population by acquiring necessary documents, raising concerns about potential security threats.
The gravity of the situation is underscored by the fact that Rohingyas have now spread across six districts, indicating a meticulously planned network for their permanent settlement.
The extent of their infiltration is alarming, with Rohingyas managing to establish themselves in the system, opening bank accounts, acquiring electricity and water connections, and obtaining essential documents such as Aadhaar cards, ration cards, and domicile certificates. This development exposes a significant lapse in the KYC processes of various departments, including Jal Shakti and Power Development Department. The exploitation of rented plots for makeshift shelters, facilitated by the negligent tenancy verification process, has further exacerbated the situation. Even the execution of rent agreements is occurring without proper scrutiny. The presence of Rohingyas near army installations and oil depots raises serious questions about the efficacy of local policing.
The marriage of local individuals to Rohingya girls and instances where a local person facilitated all necessary documents for his Rohingya son-in-law highlight the complex and troubling nature of these settlements. With clusters of makeshift shelters existing unchecked, the authorities’ prolonged inaction is a significant security lapse. Given that many Rohingyas are already in detention camps at Kathua, it is imperative for the UT Government to urgently inform the Central Government about the escalating situation and initiate the deportation of Rohingyas. Detaining them indefinitely, especially as more continue to settle in Jammu and Kashmir, is unsustainable.
The recent approach adopted by the JKP to apprehend facilitators and those providing shelter to illegal migrants is a step in the right direction. Sending a clear message that facilitating their stay in the UT will not be tolerated should act as a deterrent. Rigorous and exemplary actions on the ground are vital deterrents. The Police’s simultaneous registration of 14 FIRs across six districts is commendable, showcasing the result of meticulous groundwork by the intelligence wing. Rohingyas pose a substantial threat to regional security, and locals must refrain from employing or providing shelter to them. In this digital age, attempts to conceal such activities are futile, and individuals should approach local police stations for tenant verifications. Immediate action against all locals involved is imperative, and information gathered from those detained can potentially unveil the intricate interstate network. Urgent redressal of the Rohingya issue is vital amid existing challenges in Jammu and Kashmir. The decisive steps taken thus far, coupled with sustained efforts by the Jammu and Kashmir Police, offer hope for resolving this pressing issue.
Follow our WhatsApp channel
