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An Indian national stranded in Bahrain for nearly 20 years was repatriated yesterday (April 17) after suffering from diabetes-related complications.
Iyyappan Murugaiyyan, 44, who arrived in Bahrain in 2004, had been living without valid documents and was under a travel ban since 2006.
His case had remained unresolved for years due to the lack of active visa records.
Suffering from severe health issues including diabetes complications that led to the amputation of two toes, Mr Murugaiyyan endured extremely difficult living conditions.
The Pravasi Legal Cell (PLC) worked to resolve his case in co-ordination with the Indian Embassy and a network of well-wishers.
“An Emergency Certificate was issued by the Indian Embassy, and after several rounds of legal proceedings and follow-ups, the travel ban was officially lifted following a court order,” a PLC spokesperson added, in a statement.
“His repatriation has now been completed with an accompanying person for his support and medical care.”
The repatriation effort received support from the government, including the immigration and judicial authorities as well as Salmaniya Medical Complex and Al Hilal Hospital.
PLC Bahrain president Sudheer Thirunilath, general secretary Dr Rithin Raj, and working committee members Sabu Chirammal and Faizal Pattandi, worked together to facilitate his treatment and return.
Advocate Tariq Alown also pursued the legal case, appearing in court multiple times to help lift the travel ban.
Mr Murugaiyyan will be returning home to continue treatment and be with his wife Malarvathi, daughter Soumya, father Murugaiyyan and mother Valarmathi.
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