Govt to hold census of Rohingyas

The government, for the first time, is going to conduct a census of Rohingyas staying in Bangladesh to prepare a database and find out the causes of their intrusion.

A Tk 21.75 crore project for the purpose is going to be placed in the meeting of Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (Ecnec) today.

Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics will carry out a survey in Cox's Bazar, Bandarban, Rangamati, Chittagong, Khagrachhari and Patuakhali for the census.

The proposal said under the project, a database, comprising pictures and general information of Myanmarese national Rohingyas, would be prepared.

The census will also identify the present addresses of the Rohingyas and their origins in Myanmar. Besides, it will also prepare their socioeconomic and demographic statistics.

The planning commission's proposal said there is no accurate statistics about how many Rohingyas are now living in Bangladesh, but it is estimated that the number would be 3 to 5 lakh.

The proposal also added, “Despite strict vigilance in the border areas, every day on average eight to 10 Rohingyas are infiltrating into Bangladesh.”

These illegal Rohingyas have been settling in different areas, destroying forests. They are being involved in criminal activities, the proposal also mentioned.

The planning commission said these Rohingyas lead a very poor life, and the international community has requested Bangladesh to ensure the quality of life of the Rohingyas.