Nepalese Refugees: Increased Surveillance Amid Communal Tensions in the Terai Region

In recent years, refugees from various countries, including the Rohingya, have been residing in Nepal’s urban areas, prompting authorities to adopt corresponding security strategies. A few weeks ago, Nepal Police Chief Dan Bahadur Karki expressed concerns about certain activities by Rohingya, Pakistani, and Somali refugees potentially creating ‘security sensitivities.’ Following communal tensions in several Terai districts last week, the Ministry of Home Affairs spokesperson stated that security agencies have been instructed to remain vigilant to prevent possible illegal entry of third-country nationals.

According to the latest data from the United Nations refugee agency, Nepal hosts refugees and displaced persons from over fifteen countries. In particular, approximately 12,500 Tibetan refugees and more than 6,300 Bhutanese refugees, totaling nearly 20,000, are residing in Nepal. After Police Chief Karki’s statements to a parliamentary committee, allegations and counter-allegations have arisen, mainly concerning the entry of Rohingya and Pakistani refugees into Nepal.

Following recent communal unrest in districts including Sunsari, officials have tightened surveillance at border checkpoints in the Terai to control illegal crossings. Chief District Officer of Jhapa, Shiv Ram Gelal, said, “After incidents in Sunsari and other districts, we have directed security committees to step up enforcement, considering the possibility of illegal entry.” Although strict examinations have been conducted on individuals involved in illegal crossings and criminal activities, Gelal noted that “no refugees have been found during these checks.”