The UN Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (CERD) issued a statement calling on India to halt the arbitrary detention of Rohingya refugees who fled Myanmar and to refrain from forcibly deporting them back to Myanmar.

The Committee expressed grave concerns over reports of human rights violations and abuses Rohingya would face upon return, emphasizing the risk of serious harm.

Highlighting widespread racist hate speech and harmful stereotypes against Rohingya, including from public figures, CERD urged India to condemn such acts and ensure they are thoroughly investigated and punished. This call aligns with India's international obligations under the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination.

CERD specifically noted its concern regarding the arbitrary mass detention of Rohingya, including children, under poor conditions without due process or legal representation. It condemned past deportations and emphasized the ongoing risk of further deportations, which violate the principle of non-refoulement.

The Committee called on India to cease arbitrary mass detentions, use immigration detention only as a last resort for the shortest possible period, and provide detained Rohingya with legal safeguards and access to legal counsel. It also urged India to ensure detention facilities meet international standards and improve living conditions.

Furthermore, CERD urged India to end racial discrimination against Rohingya, lift restrictions hindering their access to employment, health care, and education, and facilitate long-term visas and identity documents. It also encouraged India to cooperate with the Special Rapporteur on human rights in Myanmar, including by allowing a country visit to India.

CERD's early warning and urgent action procedure aims to prevent escalations that could lead to human rights violations, aligning with its mandate under the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination. (ILKHA)