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Indian politicians for repatriation of Bhutanese refugees

Indian leaders have criticised Bhutan for not taking initiation to repatriate Bhutanese refugees who have been taking asylum in Nepal since last two decades.

A statement issued Friday by former Union Minister of India Satya Prakash Malaviya, who chairs the Indo-Bhutan Friendship Society (IBFS), said the society supports the timely repatriation of Bhutanese refugees with honour and dignity.

"IBFS is appalled that even after the institution of democratic government in Bhutan for last ten months; the reports emanating from Bhutan are disturbing," the statement reads, adding, "The fundamental human rights and democratic rights are not granted to people. The political persecution is still rampant and freedom of speech and expression are restricted."

The statement further reads, "Freedom of assembly and association is banned. Exile political parties and human rights organisation are still banned. Independent judiciary is absent. Political prisoners are still incarcerated and the sentences meted out to political prisoners are utterly unbelievable."

The society said life imprisonment has been assigned to many for carrying political literature. During the coronation of fifth king, Bhutan announced the release of over 100 prisoners, including four political prisoners.

IBFS, during its executive committee meeting held in Delhi on December 17, the national day of Bhutan, decided to write letter to Bhutanese Members of Parliament highlighting the issues and to visit Bhutan and meet political prisoners.

Malaviya said the delegation will also seek to hold discussion with concerned Bhutanese authorities' towards finding just and peaceful resolution to various issues. nepalnews.com ia Dec 19 08