Tensions in Myanmar have led to communal violence, with nearly 5,000 houses of Buddhists and Hindus destroyed by Rohingya Muslims in Buthidaung, near the Bangladesh border. The situation in Myanmar is worsening, with increased fighting between the military-led junta and ethnic rebel groups, especially in Rakhine State.
“These houses were targeted because they belonged to Buddhists and Hindus. Many residents had already fled to safer areas, leaving the houses empty. Those who stayed were forced out, and their homes were looted and burned right in front of them. Young boys from Rohingya camps in Bangladesh were used in this operation,” a source revealed. The destruction happened between 11 and 21 April. The ethnic rebel group Arakan Army now controls Buthidaung.
“In 2018, Buthidaung had 3,000 Rohingya Muslim houses. This number has now more than tripled to 10,000 as people from other areas moved here. Over half the residents are Muslims, with the rest being Buddhists and Hindus,” a source reported. Communal tensions in Rakhine State began over a decade ago, causing many Rohingyas to flee to Bangladesh.
“Some Rohingyas from refugee camps are being forced to fight. Some manage to escape, but others are compelled to fight civilians. This divide-and-rule strategy will make the situation worse,” a source added. Thousands of young people across Myanmar have fled to safer areas, with some crossing into other countries to avoid forced conscription. Recently, Bangladesh’s Foreign Minister, Hasan Mahmud, expressed hope that the Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh would return to Myanmar. It is estimated that there are one million Rohingyas in Bangladesh.
Additionally, 138 Myanmar military personnel, including a lieutenant colonel and two majors, have taken refuge in Bangladesh. “They will be sent back like other military personnel were repatriated,” Mahmud stated last week, noting that the Rohingyas also want to return.
Meanwhile, those who have fled face survival challenges due to a lack of livelihood opportunities. The monsoon season, which starts in a few weeks, is the only respite. During this time, mobility is restricted, and clashes on the ground would be reduced significantly for nearly two months.
(Featured Image Source: OpIndia)
