Thousands of Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh have been left homeless after a devastating blaze tore through their camp, destroying hundreds of homes. The fire, suspected to be an act of arson, quickly spread through the tightly packed complex of bamboo and tarpaulin shelters in the southeastern region of the country. Officials reported that 711 shelters were completely burned and 63 were partially damaged, leaving around 4,000 people homeless. Fortunately, there were no casualties, and the fire has been brought under control.
The fire broke out in the Kutupalong camp in Ukhiya at around midnight and rapidly spread due to strong winds. Firefighters from Ukhiya and other nearby stations battled the blaze for approximately two hours, finally gaining control. While it is not officially confirmed, preliminary accounts from refugees suggest that a mud oven might have been the cause of the fire.
Fires in Rohingya refugee camps are not uncommon, especially during the dry season from November to April. However, this particular camp has been plagued by violence between rival Rohingya groups, making security a major concern. Last year, more than 60 refugees lost their lives in turf wars and drug-related clashes, marking a record high.
The United Nations refugee agency has voiced its support for those affected by the fire, stating that many refugee shelters have been damaged. The agency is actively working to assist those in need. The Rohingya refugees have sought refuge in Bangladesh following a 2017 military crackdown targeting the predominantly Muslim minority in neighboring Myanmar. The events of that crackdown are currently being investigated by the United Nations for possible genocide.
Despite attempts to repatriate the Rohingya refugees, conditions in Myanmar have worsened since the military takeover in 2021, making their return unfeasible. Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has repeatedly emphasized that the refugees will not be forcibly sent back, while human rights groups argue that conditions in Myanmar are not suitable for repatriation.
The Muslim Rohingya population in Myanmar faces widespread discrimination in a country predominantly influenced by Buddhism. Rohingya individuals are denied citizenship and various constitutional rights, exacerbating their plight and prompting their flight to neighboring countries for safety.
The recent fire at the Rohingya refugee camp in Bangladesh serves as a stark reminder of the dire circumstances these displaced individuals face daily. The international community must continue to provide support and assistance to ensure the well-being and safety of the Rohingya refugees, who have endured unimaginable hardships in their search for security and dignity.
