Hindu migrants from Pakistan seeking citizenship will now get a lesson in nationalism, culture and Indian ethos after their arrival in India. Social organisations, in association with sadhus and saints of Hinduism, will be a part of this initiation process that will teach them to freely practice their religion and be proud of it. They would also be given briefings to inculcate nationalistic feelings for the country that is providing them asylum.
This was the underlying message at a two-day national meet organised in Jaipur to deliberate on the problems and issues of Pak Hindu Migrants (PHM). Even as the focus was on providing help and support to the families, there was underlying concern of their vulnerability, as they had left behind family members and could be easily pressurised by agencies in Pakistan.
The sessions on Friday saw intermittent cheering of Bharat Mata Ki Jai with the PHM joining in with apprehension. They were repeatedly assured that being Hindus, they would find space in the hearts and homes of Indians. The event organised by Nimitekam had the support of Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP). As many as 16 organisations working to help the PHM took part.
Organiser Jai Ahuja, president of Nimitekam said, "Our aim is resettlement of the PHMs. They reach here in a shattered mental condition and need assurances along with help. They have always lived a life of being defensive about their Hindu identity, they are being taught to inculcate pride in their identities."
Dr Omendra Ratnu, founder member said, "They are a vulnerable lot; especially as they have relatives in Pakistan. The element of pressure is always there on them. The intelligence agencies find them soft targets and we strive to make them stronger. The sessions about Indian culture and traditions are part of this effort." There are over two lakh PHM across nine states in India, but just over 20,000 have managed to get citizenship.
Population
- There are over two lakh PHM across nine states in India, but just over 20,000 have managed to get citizenship.
