Manama: A family of five with a special child overcomes the travel ban with community support and legal aid.
A five-member family of Lavanya Thiyagarajan, who were facing a travel ban and struggling with financial difficulties in Bahrain, finally left the country today. The family had approached Pravasi Legal Cell last year in November seeking help, as they had no money to pay rent, no job, and a special child with medical issues, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
Sudheer Thirunilath, the country head of Pravasi Legal Cell, took up the matter with H.E. the Ambassador and explained the situation in an open house. The ambassador and all staff extended all support to solve the issue. After long discussions, the employer finally agreed to lift the travel ban and allowed the family to look for jobs and change their visa.
Although the Pravasi Legal Cell team tried to find jobs for them, unfortunately, they couldn’t find a suitable one. It was challenging for the family to survive with the expenses of the child’s treatment, medicines, school fees, food, rent, etc. The medicines that the special child used were brought from India with the help of many people. Later, they were advised to travel back to India and continue the child’s treatment.
Pravasi Legal Cell approached the immigration authorities for help, who had always been very supportive. Finally, arrangements were made to pay the fine and clear immigration. With the help of the Embassy of India and MWPS, ATM, and TKS, their flight tickets were issued, and today the mission was accomplished.
The family expressed their gratitude towards H.E. Shri Piyush Srivastava, the Ambassador of India, the Embassy officials, the labour section, and other organisations such as the World NRI Council Team, Migrant Workers Protection Society (MWPS), Annai Tamil Mandram, and Telugu Kala Samiti for their help in arranging food support, medical support, ticket support, and other aid. The Indian School also waived off fees due and helped get the transfer certificate for their daughter. MWPS arranged a special-aid wheelchair that will be more helpful for the child.
The smooth check-in at the airport was arranged by Mr. Amaldev, Country Coordinator PLC, Ms. Sushma Gupta, General Secretary, and other Governing Council Members, Mr. Senthil and Mr. Jai Shah. Thus, the smile was brought back to the five members of Lavanya’s family, and they could finally travel back to India with the necessary aid and support.
It is heart-warming to see the efforts made by various organizations and individuals to support the family in need. This incident showcases the importance of strong community support and collaboration in times of crisis. It also highlights the role played by legal cells and advocacy groups in protecting the rights and interests of vulnerable individuals and families. We hope that the family receives the necessary medical treatment and support in India and that their future is filled with hope and happiness. This incident also serves as a reminder for us to be mindful of the challenges faced by migrant workers and their families and to strive towards creating a more inclusive and supportive society for all.
