Most Chechen refugees still in no hurry to leave Ingushetia for ChechnyaRuslan Isayev, North Caucasus - Akhmad Kadyrov's statement that all Chechen refugees living in tent camps in Ingushetia will return to Chechnya by the beginning of October does not match with the actual mood of the refugees. The crushing majority of the displaced people still do not intend to go home, at least before the presidential election.
Nevertheless, the refugees fear the repressions will be launched against those who refuse to leave the relatively calm Ingushetia for constantly restless Chechnya, although at his latest meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Kadyrov said that the return will only be on a voluntary basis. This principle was reiterated also by Ingush President Murat Zyazikov during his meeting with refugees. Zyazikov assured that for those who will opt to stay brick houses will be built. However, no one will leave people in tents for the fourth winter, Zyazikov added.
Having spent several years in such conditions, people's health has markedly deteriorated, which is proved by the increased incidence of TB and other infectious diseases. However, many inhabitants of the tent camps think: "It's better to lose health here than life there [in Chechnya]."
One cannot say that the people wishing to leave Ingushetia for home are few - the Emergencies Ministry even is not able to transport them. However, every day the number of people wishing to return is gradually diminishing.
The rumour has it here that soon Chechen guerilla fighters will carry out several counter-attacks. They are likely to do it before the beginning of October when there will be the election of the President of the Chechen Republic. Many observers say that they will be serious combat operations not only in the mountains but also in Chechen lowlands. There will probably be numerous casualties on both sides as well as among civilians. As a result, people are not rushing home for the time being. (T) |
