Rohingyas decline to go back, stage demo

Cox’s Bazar Correspondent: Though Bangladesh was about to repatriate some of Rohingya people to their homeland, they declined to go back in fear of security.

Rather, they waged demonstration at Unchiprang camp of Teknaf in Cox’s Bazar on Thursday noon that fell the repatriation process in uncertainty.

Bangladesh had taken over all preparations to send back them to Myanmar. Buses had also been kept to carry them to the border. But they declined to go back.

Refugee, Relief and Repatriation Commissioner Md Abul Kalam said, “We had taken decision to repatriate Rohingyas through Ghumdhum point of Bandarban border. Everything including three-day ration was also ready for them. Rohingyas, who are interested in going back willingly, were sent back with dignity.”

“But they suddenly became furious and waged demonstration at noon, shaking the entire camp area by procession and different slogans. They chanted slogans for five-point demand. Otherwise, they declined to go back their homeland,” he added.

Rohingyas said, “We will go to our motherland once the five-point is met. We want assurance of security of our lives. We do not believe Myanmar officials.”

They also requested the United Nations (UN) to take steps to ensure their citizenship in Myanmar.

risingbd/Cox’s Bazar/November 15, 2018/Sujauddin Rubel/AKA