Bangladesh relocates more Rohingya refugees

15 February 2021

Bangladesh is moving 3,000-4,000 more Rohingya Muslim refugees to a remote Bay of Bengal island over the next two days, despite concerns about the risk of storms and floods lashing the site. Dhaka has relocated around 7,000 to Bhasan Char island since early December and it’s Navy Commodore Rashed Sattar said more refugees are being moved to Bhasan Char by ships today and tomorrow.

Bangladesh says the relocation is voluntary, but some of a first group to be moved spoke of being coerced. The government has dismissed safety concerns over the island, citing the building of flood defences as well as housing for 100,000 people, hospitals and cyclone centres. It also says overcrowding in refugee camps fuels crime.

Once they arrive on Bhasan Char, the Rohingya, a minority group who fled violence, are not allowed to leave the island, which is several hours’ journey from the southern port of Chittagong. Bangladesh has drawn criticism for a reluctance to consult with the United Nations refugee agency and other aid bodies over the transfers. The UN High Commissioner for Refugees says the agency has not been allowed to evaluate the safety and sustainability of life on the island.

Adapted from Trtworld

LT