Baloch leader Brahamdagh Bugti asylum: Intelligence Bureau OK, MHA cautious

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The MHA, however, is learnt to be treading cautiously and awaiting a final communication from RAW. Sources said the MHA may leave the final decision on allowing Bugti’s plea with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). The report from the agencies may be shared with the MEA, they said.

“India does not have any asylum policy. And since it (a decision on allowing asylum to Bugti) has diplomatic and political implications, the decision will be taken by the MEA in consultation with the Prime Minister’s Office,” a source in the government said. “The proposal may be (subsequently) taken before the Union Cabinet for an approval.”

According to the source, the government may make an announcement once the Winter Session of Parliament is over.

Bugti had applied for asylum at the Indian consulate in Geneva in September this year. The application was forwarded to MEA, which in turn sent it to the Home Ministry. The MHA said that Bugti’s application was referred to the security agencies for an in-depth vetting after examination.

Officials familiar with Bugti’s application said that the government may grant him long-term visa, or the other option could be to give registration certificate on the lines of Tibet refugees.

An RC can be used to travel abroad by using it as a travel document. Baloch leaders have urged India to help them form a Balochistan government in exile. Bugti is president and founder of the Baloch Republican Party.