Families say they were left without shelter or basic services; authorities defend the action as the removal of illegal encroachment
JAMMU — Fresh action against Rohingya refugees in Jammu has left several Muslim families in fear after their temporary shelters were damaged and basic services were cut off during an operation in the city’s Trikuta Nagar locality.
The operation was led by Vikram Randhawa, a leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), who visited the area on Wednesday along with police and officials from several civic departments.
During the visit, electricity and water connections of several Rohingya families were disconnected. Witnesses said that temporary huts made of tarpaulin were also damaged. Videos circulating locally show the MLA present at the site, reportedly giving instructions to officials during the action.
Refugee families said the move was sudden and has pushed them into a difficult situation. “We were not given any warning. Suddenly, our water and electricity were cut. We have nowhere else to go,” one Rohingya resident said.
Another refugee said, “We have been living here for years. Some of us even have cards from the United Nations refugee agency, but still we are being treated like this.”
Many families claimed that they were threatened during the operation and asked to leave the area. They also alleged that their livestock, especially goats, were seized. “These animals are our only source of income. If they take them away, how will we survive?” a resident asked.
During the operation, Vikram Randhawa made strong remarks, alleging that Rohingya settlers were living illegally and were involved in activities causing problems in nearby areas. He also instructed the police to seize goats and shift them to shelters, saying, “I will bear the transport cost myself.”
However, his remarks against the Rohingya Muslims have raised concern among observers, as some videos show him using harsh language in front of the media.
Defending the action, Randhawa said that the land belongs to the railway authorities and is a sensitive area. “Illegal occupation will not be allowed under any circumstances,” he said, adding that around 50 to 60 families had their connections cut.
He further stated that strict steps would continue against illegal activities in his constituency and that a cleanliness drive would also be carried out to maintain order in the area.
The incident has once again brought attention to the situation of Rohingya Muslims in Jammu, many of whom have been living there for years under uncertain conditions. While authorities maintain that the action is part of law enforcement, affected families say it has left them without basic rights, safety and dignity.
