For a few hours they forgot their fears and worries and gave in to the pleasures of the moment. They sang and danced and played games with gay abandon.
Refugees from different countries had a whale of a time at a programme organised by COVA and United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, India here on Thursday. For a change the programme was named ‘End of the Year' celebrations.
Refugee families from Somalia, Sudan, Myanmar, and Eritrea took part in competitions like musical chairs, balloon race and singing. The winners were given away prizes and the entire gathering treated to a sumptuous dinner. A Somalian girl, Sabrin, translated all the speeches for the benefit of her community.
Kalpana Tawakley, Programme Officer, UNHCR, advised the refugees to make most of the opportunities they were getting in India to educate their children and eke out a living.
“Don't wait to restart your lives after returning to your country, as it may take years,” Ms. Tawakley said.
The refugees had come to India to save their lives and not to make money. Their situation was pitiable as they would face persecution if they return to their countries.
Mazhar Hussain, Director, COVA, sympathised with the refugees and promised to extend all support to make their lives comfortable here. He referred to recent harassment of refugees by police, as some of them had come to India on stolen visas.
“You are not to be blamed as the travel agent cheated you,” Mr. Hussain said.
K.M. Arifuddin, chairman, Madina Group of Institutions, and Khurram Askari, Director, Outreach, also spoke.
