Pakistani Hindu family returns from India

LAHORE:

A 24-member Pakistani Hindu family that had moved to India two years ago in search of a better future returned to Pakistan on Monday through the Wagah border, citing hardships and discriminatory treatment during their stay there.

The family, originally from Sanghar district in Sindh, arrived back in the country after living in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. Family head Rano said he had travelled to India along with his two married sons, their families, his wife and children, hoping for improved living conditions.

Speaking to reporters after returning, Rano said the family faced difficulties in daily life because of their Pakistani identity. He alleged that they encountered discrimination while trying to enrol children in schools, obtain ration supplies and access medicines from government dispensaries.

He said that after tensions between Pakistan and India escalated last year, Pakistani nationals in India were increasingly viewed with suspicion by police, security personnel and extremist groups. He claimed that some Pakistani citizens were even accused of espionage.

Family members expressed relief and happiness upon returning to Pakistan, saying they were glad to be back in their homeland. Most members of the family were children, while their appearance and clothing reflected financial hardship. Border movement between Pakistan and India has remained limited over the past year, with the Wagah border mainly being opened on specific occasions.