Bhasan Char, 26 January —Thousands of Rohingya have fled Bhasan Char in the past two weeks, according to discussions held during a meeting of the National Security Intelligence (NSI) and Head Focals (Rohingya Majhis) on 22nd January. The meeting highlighted critical issues contributing to the exodus, including lack of employment opportunities, difficulties and delays in visiting relatives, and harassment by authorities and others.
To address these grievances and reduce further departures, the NSI proposed a preventive initiative: organising monthly visits for Bhasan Char refugees to the Cox’s Bazar camps via Navy ships. This arrangement is set to begin on the 6th of next month, and aims to strengthen ties between the island residents and their families on the mainland.
Additionally, the Camp-in-Charge (CiC) office has reportedly instructed Head Focals not to prevent individuals from leaving the island. This measure signals a shift towards addressing the concerns of those relocated to Bhasan Char.
The situation remains critical as authorities work to implement measures that can mitigate discontent while maintaining order on the island.
