Rohingya Population in Bangladesh: Current Figures and Challenges
The Department of Immigration and Passport (DIP) of Bangladesh has registered a staggering 1,038,000 Rohingya refugees who have fled from Myanmar since August 25, 2017. This number has been disclosed during the 19th meeting of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on the Ministry of Home Affairs, presided over by Chairman Tipu Munshi. The registered refugees are now benefiting from national ID cards instead of regular Bangladeshi passports.
Living Conditions in Cox's Bazar Kutupalong Camp
According to official records, around 628,000 Rohingya refugees are currently residing in the Kutupalong camp in Cox's Bazar. These figures are crucial in understanding the humanitarian crisis faced by the displaced population. The camp is not only a place of refuge but also a microcosm of the complex challenges faced by refugees, including livelihoods, health, and security.
Addressing Safety and Environmental Concerns
The Parliamentary Standing Committee on the Ministry of Home Affairs has recommended the installation of a fence around the camp to ensure the safety of the Rohingya refugees. This proposal aims to protect them from external threats and maintain internal order. Additionally, there is a call for providing fuel supplies to the refugees to protect nearby forest areas, which are being degraded due to the refugees' activities such as fuelwood collection for heating and cooking purposes.
Government Response and Future Plans
The Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan, along with other members of the standing committee, emphasized the urgent need for a balanced approach to address the humanitarian needs of the Rohingya refugees. The government is considering both short-term and long-term solutions to ensure the welfare of the displaced population. This includes efforts to facilitate livelihood opportunities and integrate the refugees into the local community, while also addressing the environmental concerns that arise from the refugees' presence.
While the current spell has seen an additional 11,20354 Rohingya refugees being registered, it's crucial to note that a few hundred thousand have entered the country in earlier cases as well. This ongoing influx highlights the continuous displacement and persecution faced by the Rohingya in Myanmar.
The situation remains a pressing issue, necessitating concerted efforts from the international community, the government of Bangladesh, and humanitarian organizations to provide sustainable solutions and alleviate the suffering of the Rohingya refugees.