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Securing border exec function, don't interfere, Centre tells Supreme Court

Defending the BSF, the Centre denied allegations that it used chilli powder and stun grenades to prevent the refugees from entering India

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The Centre backed the Border Security Force (BSF) in dismissing allegations of brutality instigated by them against the beleaguered Rohingya community. In an affidavit submitted to the Supreme Court on Friday, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) urged the top court not to intervene in the executive decision to deport the 40,000 strong Rohingya community from India.

Defending the BSF, the Centre denied allegations that it used chilli powder and stun grenades to prevent the refugees from entering India. The affidavit submitted that all steps taken to secure the border were in strictly in accordance with law, in larger public interest, and in the interest of nation.

A top court bench led by Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra is hearing a batch of petitions filed by the Rohingya Muslim refugees seeking a stay on their deportation.

The Home Ministry submitted that because of its porous borders, the country is already facing a serious problem of infiltration which is the root cause of terrorism here.

Securing its borders in accordance with law is the essential function of any sovereign nation and the court should desist from interfering. The MHA further pointed out that India is not a signatory to the United Nations Convention relating to status of refugees.

The affidavit added that it was not in the nation's interest to stop the deportation due to the country's unique geographical position. India shares its land border with China, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, and Myanmar.

The BSF was thus tasked with securing the nation's border by preventing unauthorised entry of foreigners and prevent trans-border crimes including smuggling and other illegal activity. The Centre also denied all human rights' violations allegedly perpetrated by the BSF.

MHA dded that medical facilities were being provided to the Rohingyas refugees at all health care centres. However, it was unable to issue them identity cards since the Parliament had not passed any law in this regard.

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