Rohingya Muslims living in a corner of Myanmar belong nowhere. Violence erupts in the area from time to time and thousands of them seek refuge in Bangladesh. Violence in the Rakhine state of Myanmar last weekend was a different proposition. The country witnessed violence on a scale not known before. Of course, Myanmar has been a victim of ethnic and communal violence since its independence in 1948. The junta defended its rule arguing that without it the country would disintegrate. Violent clashes between Rohingya Muslims and Buddhists have now threatened the country’s march to democracy. The military may crack down on the miscreants and assume complete control of the administration. But democracy in Myanmar can be firmly entrenched only if the new government can preserve peace among the ethnic groups.
Of greater importance is the Myanmar economy. Military rule is at an end and the country is out of global isolation. The US and the EU have temporarily lifted their decades-old sanctions. The Myanmar economy has opened up. Many countries are in a race for its natural resources, especially oil and gas. So far, China enjoyed a monopoly. Now foreign players including India are foraying into the region. Prime Minister Manmohan Singh highlighted the economic tie during his recent visit. But ethnic violence will throttle progress in Myanmar. India is particularly concerned because the recent violence occurred near Sittwe where it is building a port. Indian firms have a stake in a gas pipeline project and the building of a major highway. Delhi is naturally anxious to see stability in Myanmar.
