End of life on roads, expat returns home

Manama : An Indian expatriate, who was forced to beg on the roads after losing his job, returned to India yesterday. After many years of struggle in Bahrain, Rasik Kumar Chhaganlal Panchal left to his homeland with the help of various social workers and the Indian Embassy.

“I am thankful to everybody, who has helped me in my difficult times. Going back to my India was a dream as there were obstacles. Today, a dream come true,” Panchal said. “I highly appreciate all the efforts taken by everyone to help me. I will have everyone in my prayers, thank you very much,” he added before leaving Bahrain.

After working in the UAE for a few years, Panchal came to Bahrain in 2006. He enjoyed a few successful years here as a painting supervisor. 

However, when he lost his job, he fell into debt. He needed to pay thousands of dinars to his landlord and his bank. Subsequently, a travel ban was slapped on him. 

Due to his health issues, he was unable to do any job, and he was forced to beg to make both ends meet. 

“I lived in a small shelter along with many people. I paid BD 20 as rent. Rest of the money was used for food,” he said recalling those miserable days.

Panchal had written to the Indian Government many times requesting for help. 

“In the nineties I went to Abu Dhabi, UAE, to join my brothers to work there. I worked there for 10 years doing several kinds of painting works. Later I shifted with my family to my hometown, Surat in Gujarat. I started working as a painting sub-contractor in Surat municipality for about two years. Then I started applying for overseas jobs. Later I got a job as a painting supervisor in Bahrain,” Panchal had stated in his letter to the Indian Ministry of External Affairs. 

The ministry was keen on helping Panchal. Along with the Indian Embassy, the ministry took necessary measures to ensure Panchal’s return to India. 

Panchal left for India on a flight to New Delhi, India, yesterday evening. He will reunite with his wife and children in his hometown after many years.