The Haryana government’s ongoing campaign to verify the identities of Rohingya Muslims has stirred controversy, with critics accusing authorities of targeting a vulnerable community. The campaign, conducted with the police and Criminal Investigation Department (CID), aims to complete the process by January 12.
Officials claim the initiative is a security measure, citing the increasing number of Rohingya Muslims in districts like Nuh. Haryana’s Superintendent of Police, Karthikeya Sharma, stated, “This verification is necessary to ensure public safety.” However, no substantial evidence has been provided to link the community to criminal or anti-national activities, sparking accusations of bias.
The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) has been vocal in demanding the expulsion of Rohingya Muslims from Haryana. Political analysts suggest the move aligns with pressure from groups aiming to consolidate Hindu voter bases.
Around 2,000 Rohingya Muslims, settled across districts such as Rewari, Mahendragarh, Nuh, and Faridabad, have integrated into local communities over the past decade. Many possess identification documents like Aadhaar and ration cards.
Despite this, the community faces heightened suspicion. Abdul Karim, a Rohingya resident of Nuh, expressed his fears and said, “We fled Myanmar to escape violence. Now we are treated like criminals here. We just want to live peacefully.”
Amina Begum, another resident, said, “Our children go to local schools, and we contribute to the economy. Why are we being targeted? This makes us feel unsafe.”
Human rights activists argue the campaign risks violating constitutional rights, including equality and protection from discrimination. Colin Gonsalves, a Supreme Court lawyer, remarked,”Without evidence, targeting a specific community undermines the secular fabric of India.”
Observers fear that the campaign, while framed as a security measure, could lead to harassment of the Rohingya and deepen communal divides.
Media coverage has largely focused on unsubstantiated claims of criminality, further marginalizing the community. Journalists advocating for balanced reporting stress the importance of amplifying the voices of affected families.
“This issue is about human dignity and justice, not just security,” one journalist said.
Political leaders in Haryana have added to the tension, with inflammatory rhetoric from groups like the RSS and VHP raising concerns about communal harmony.
The verification campaign highlights a delicate balance between national security and the rights of vulnerable communities. Critics urge transparency and adherence to constitutional principles during the process.
“The Rohingya have already endured immense hardship. They deserve compassion, not suspicion,” said a local humanitarian advocate.
