SDPI Condemns Inhumane Deportation of Rohingya Refugees

BM Kamble, National Vice President of the Social Democratic Party of India, strongly condemns the deportation of 142 Rohingya refugees, including women and children, to international waters near Myanmar on May 12, 2025. Fleeing genocide-like conditions in Myanmar’s Rakhine State, these refugees, many with UNHCR identity cards, were detained in New Delhi under false pretenses, transported to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and allegedly abandoned at sea, forced to swim to Myanmar’s conflict-ridden coast. This violates non-refoulement and India’s legacy of compassion, exposing them to persecution or death, despite a pending Supreme Court hearing.

The Rohingya, stateless victims of systemic violence, pose no security threat akin to military tensions with Pakistan. Deporting them to Myanmar’s warzone or abandoning them at sea is cruel, not a defense of sovereignty. India’s non-signatory status to the 1951 UN Refugee Convention does not negate its moral and legal duty to protect those fleeing persecution.

The SDPI demands an immediate stop to deportations, a humane policy for the Rohingya, temporary protection, and UNHCR cooperation. India must uphold its role as a sanctuary. We call on civil society to advocate for the Rohingya’s rights and stand in solidarity, ensuring compassion prevails over prejudice.