Rohingyas of Myanmar: Past and Present

Newsclick interviews noted lawyer and human rights activist Nandita Haksar, on issues related to the migration of Rohingya Muslims of Myanmar and the persistent attacks on this vulnerable community. Nandita points out that 'the most persecuted minority of the world' is suffering the effects of the dual attacks of ethnic violence and economic disempowerment. They face a challenge just to survive - with no citizenship rights in Myanmar; and neighboring countries refusing to accept them as refugees. Only Malaysia and Thailand have agreed to take in some migrants who are currently stuck in middle of the sea but due to fear of growing rate of migrants, they may stop this humanitarian practice in the near future.

Nandita explores the origins of the current sorry state of affairs - pointing out that the present situation is a direct result of the divide and rule policy made famous by the British during colonial times. The denial of basic rights to the Rohingya's - including the right to citizenship - continue to cause great humanitarian crises in the region, but what can and should neighbouring countries, such as India, do to ameliorate the situation?