Jammu, Dec 7 – Amid an ongoing crackdown on Rohingya Muslims in Jammu, the region’s Jal Shakti Minister Javed Ahmed Rana assured on Saturday that water supply to slums housing the illegal immigrants would not be cut off until the central government decides on their deportation.
Rana’s statement came in response to complaints from Rohingyas residing on three plots of land in the Narwal area of Jammu. They alleged that local authorities recently disconnected their water and electricity supplies, intensifying the challenges they face.
“The government is duty-bound to ensure water supply to all human beings,” Rana said in a statement to news agency PTI. “We will ensure water supply to them (Rohingyas) on humanitarian grounds until the Government of India takes a call on their issue.”
Rana, who also serves as the minister for forest, ecology, environment, and tribal affairs, emphasized the humanitarian nature of the decision. He confirmed plans to address the water disconnection issue with relevant officials.
The issue of Rohingya refugees, most of whom fled violence in Myanmar, remains a contentious topic in Jammu and Kashmir, where they face increasing pressure from authorities and public opposition. Despite calls for their deportation, the central government has yet to finalize a policy.
Local activists and humanitarian organizations have raised concerns about the treatment of Rohingyas in the region, urging authorities to provide basic amenities while their fate is decided.
The Chenab Times News Desk