Humanitarian Crisis to Security Threat: Understanding the Rohingya Migrants Issue and Its Pertinence to Jammu and Kashmir’s Stability

Akriti Uppal, Talha Latief Tantray, Sandeep Kumar and Neeta Rani
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Akriti Uppal: Akriti Uppal is a Research Scholar in Department of National Security Studies, Central University of Jammu, J&K, India. She is working on Border Security issues in Jammu and Kashmir. Her area of interest includes border security, peace and conflict resolutions and international relations.
Talha Latief Tantray: Talha Latief Tantray is a Senior Research Fellow in Department of National Security Studies, Central University of Jammu, J&K, India. His area of research includes Internal Security, India’s maritime South East Asia Affairs.
Sandeep Kumar: Sandeep Kumar is a Research Scholar in Department of National Security Studies, Central University of Jammu. He is working on Strategic Cooperation in South Asia.
Neeta Rani: Neeta Rani is an Associate Professor in the Department of National Security Studies, Central University of Jammu, J&K, India. She specialises in Central Asian security affairs including energy. Her area of interest includes border management, Central Asia, energy security and South Asian security affairs.

India Quarterly: A Journal of International Affairs, 2025, vol. 81, issue 1, 82-100

Abstract: The Rohingya crisis has evolved from a humanitarian catastrophe to a potential security threat, raising concerns about its impact on the stability of regions hosting these displaced populations. This study explores the complex dynamics of Rohingya migration into Jammu and Kashmir and its implications for regional security. The research addresses a significant gap in existing literature, which often overlooks the specific security challenges posed by illegal migrants in this geopolitically sensitive region. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study integrates qualitative and quantitative data gathered from interviews with local residents and security personnel, as well as statistical analysis using SPSS software. The findings reveal a strong correlation between the presence of Rohingya migrants and shifts in local security dynamics, including increased drug trafficking, human trafficking and illegal documentation. The study employs Societal Security Theory and Securitization Theory to contextualise how the Rohingya issue has evolved from a humanitarian concern to a national security threat. The analysis highlights the nuanced impact of the Indian government’s policies on the overall security landscape in Jammu and Kashmir. The research concludes by emphasising the need for evidence-based policies that balance humanitarian obligations with national security imperatives, highlighting the critical role of government intervention in mitigating the risks associated with Rohingya migration.

Keywords: Geopolitical instability; illegal immigration; Jammu and Kashmir; national security; Rohingya (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:sae:indqtr:v:81:y:2025:i:1:p:82-100

DOI: 10.1177/09749284241308162

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