THE inflow of Rohingya refugees from violence-torn Rakhine State in Myanmar slowed for the last few days owing to bad weather but thousands have started entering Bangladesh once more. According to news sources, at least 10,000 refugees have arrived in Bangladesh so far since last Saturday. Moreover, Amnesty International has revealed reports of three new videos taken inside Rakhine as recently as Friday afternoon showing large plumes of smoke rising from Rohingya villages, mostly populated by Muslims over visible burnt-out structures.
The continuation of burning villages and torturing the Rohingya Muslims are clear signs of unprecedented audacity and marked defiance towards the international condemnation for persecuting the helpless Muslim minority. Understandably, the military is not only mocking at the so-called civilian government in Myanmar but also rudely continues to violate human rights. Such death-defying show of impudence is only possible when world leaders are found hollow in their words and condemnations. It also becomes possible when these leaders prioritise monetary gain and losses, geopolitical benefits over protecting human rights.
Local sources in northern Rakhine State claim that the fresh-spate of burning was started by members of Myanmar security forces and local vigilante mobs, Buddhists in the lead. If, however, true the crisis is likely to get horrifyingly pro-longed. Moreover, the military has now laid landmines along the Bangladesh-Myanmar border so to ensure that the fleeing refugees are blocked and killed systematically. Instead of improving, the crisis has actually worsened.
We have repeatedly said, unending supply of relief, money and resources do not end a crisis. It is a two way affair and Myanmar will have to stop the atrocities still being committed in Rakhine State against the Muslim minorities. Rather shockingly it is not stopping and only a prompt intervention by the international community can stop it. It needs International Peace Keeping Forces deployment at once.
No matter how much pressure the international community has put on Myanmar diplomatically – it is far from resolving the crisis. That said – seminars, meetings or special sessions are not enough, and the world leaders must impose sanctions and stop military supply to Myanmar.
Following the recently ended UN session and our PM’s speech to the OIC leaders we must first ensure the persecution stops. For how long the world will tolerate the Myanmar army’s butchery.
