TN steps up support for Tamils in Middle East

Chennai: When 34-year-old Saravanan* stepped out for work in Bahrain on Saturday morning, his phone buzzed with another message from his family back in Tamil Nadu. They already called twice, anxious over TV images of escalating hostilities between the US, Israel and Iran. It took him some time to convince them that the situation was under control.Lakhs of Tamils working across the Gulf, from Qatar and the UAE to Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, received similar messages from concerned families back in India. "Every two hours, we see a missile being intercepted. However, the situation is under control as of now. Tamil organisations operating in Qatar have been regularly reaching out to people, offering support," said M S Valiullah, president, Orunginaintha Thamizhar Peravai recognised by the NRT Welfare Board, govt of Tamil Nadu.
He said the Indian Embassy and the Overseas Tamil Welfare Board were closely monitoring the situation in Qatar. "M Vallalar, commissioner, commissionerate of rehabilitation and welfare of non-resident Tamils, is overseeing developments, and the department is maintaining 24-hour communication to provide guidance," he said.Muthuvel Murugan from Bahrain said residents with homes closer to the US base have vacated, and moved to the outskirts. "We felt vibrations in the building whenever the base was attacked. So, we moved out with family. The Bahrain govt had made all arrangements to ensure safety of the residents. Shelters were arranged in schools," he said.Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu govt stepped up measures to ensure the safety of Tamils residing in the region. Chief Minister M K Stalin on Saturday expressed deep concern over the safety of Tamils living in the Gulf countries. He said the state govt activated its support mechanisms to assist those in need.A dedicated control room was established at Tamil Nadu House in New Delhi. In case of emergencies, Tamils in the Gulf countries can dial helpline numbers: 011-24193300 (New Delhi control room landline), 92895 16712 (mobile with WhatsApp). Their families within India can contact 1800 309 3793."Officials of the department of welfare and rehabilitation of non-resident Tamils are closely monitoring developments and maintaining constant communication with the Tamil diaspora. Officials have been instructed to provide immediate assistance wherever required," said S M Nasar, minister for minorities welfare and non-resident Tamils welfare.