A census team tried to force Rohingya villagers in Aley Than Kyaw in southern Maungdaw to register as Bengali. The group consisting of immigration officers, military, Nasaka (Burma’s border guard force), police and village administrators were alleged to be following the direction of the Rakhine Nationalities Development Party (RNDP) that wields considerable power in the state government.
An eye witness told the Kaladanpress that the villagers refused the label of Bengali, but it was recorded as such despite their objections. The term Bengali implies that they are from Bangladesh, and not Burmese nationals. It’s offensive for Rohingyas that have lived in Arakan state for generations, yet have been denied citizenship from the government.
The census operation started after the June sectarian violence. After widespread dissent spread amongst, it was temporally postponed.
Since April 10, it has started again in select areas of Maungdaw and Buthidaung Townships. Reports have emerged that security forces have arrested, and even tortured people to make them comply with the operation.
To force Rohingyas to accept being registered as Bengali against their wishes is a grievous crime against humanity, said a politician who didn’t want his name used for fear of reprisals. “We have the collective right to a life of freedom, peace and security as a distinct people (in Arakan state)”.
