Why is the J&K Government Cracking Down on Illegally-Settled Rohingyas in Jammu?
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Synopsis
The J&K government's recent crackdown on illegally-settled Rohingyas has sparked discussions around humanitarian issues and local safety. As services are cut off, the implications of this decision on the community and local residents are profound. This article delves into the unfolding situation in Jammu.
Key Takeaways
- Jammu and Kashmir government is enforcing a crackdown on illegally-settled Rohingyas.
- Electricity and water supply have been disconnected for these individuals.
- Local residents raised concerns over hygiene and safety due to illegal settlements.
- The situation has political implications, particularly with regard to the BJP's stance on immigration.
- Understanding the humanitarian aspect is crucial amid ongoing local governance issues.
Jammu, Oct 22 (NationPress) In response to an order from the executive magistrate (Tehsildar) on Wednesday, officials from the Power Development Department (PDD) and the Public Health Engineering (PHE) Department have disconnected electricity and water supply to Rohingya individuals who have settled illegally in Jammu city, located in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K).
This enforcement action against the illegally-settled Rohingya refugees marks the onset of the winter season and was initiated following a directive from the Tehsildar to the PDD and PHE departments to cut off essential services to the Rohingyas living near Nideesh Enclave in the Channi Rama area of Jammu city.
The executive magistrate’s order stated, “This office has received a request from the president of the Nideesh Enclave Residents’ Welfare Association in Channi Rama, Jammu, for the eviction of illegal Rohingyas in the vicinity. The group has unlawfully occupied land, constructed juggis, and has commenced an unauthorized scrap business, raising significant concerns regarding law and order, hygiene, and safety for local residents.
“Furthermore, as noted by the applicant, the Rohingyas are involved in loud disputes and altercations, disrupting the peace in the neighborhood, and the absence of proper sanitation has resulted in unsanitary conditions in the area.
“In light of this, you are instructed to disconnect the electricity and water supply to the aforementioned plot occupied by the Rohingyas near Nideesh Enclave Channi Rama, Jammu.”
It should be highlighted that a community of Rohingya refugees, who escaped persecution in Myanmar, has established themselves in Jammu. Their presence has become a polarizing political issue in the region, especially since the BJP assumed power at the Centre.
Initially, when the first influx of refugees from Myanmar arrived in Jammu, they coexisted peacefully and found employment as daily wage workers in areas such as Narwal, Bathandi, and Channi Himmat.
Government statistics indicate that over 13,700 foreigners, including Rohingyas, are residing in Jammu. However, local officials estimate the number of Rohingya refugees to be around 10,000.
Point of View
It is crucial to approach the situation with a balanced perspective. While the local government's actions aim to maintain law and order and address residents' concerns, it is equally important to consider the humanitarian plight of the Rohingya refugees and the broader implications of such policies on vulnerable populations.
NationPress
22/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered the J&K government's crackdown on Rohingyas?
The crackdown was initiated following complaints from local residents regarding illegal settlements and associated disturbances.
How many Rohingyas are currently in Jammu?
Government data indicates that over 13,700 foreigners, including Rohingyas, are settled in Jammu, with local estimates suggesting around 10,000.
