Pravasi Legal Cell Successfully Repatriates Stranded Indian Family from Bahrain

TDT I Manama

The Pravasi Legal Cell (PLC) Bahrain Chapter has successfully facilitated the repatriation of Mr. Sandeep Thundiyil, a native of Mahe, India, marking the end of a prolonged humanitarian and legal ordeal for his family in the Kingdom of Bahrain. Mr. Sandeep, who had been residing in Bahrain since 2011, faced a severe crisis after his small business collapsed due to financial hardships. This led to the expiration of his residency, the accumulation of multiple legal cases related to business liabilities, and a lack of documentation that left the family in a state of complete helplessness.

The family's situation was further complicated by the birth of their daughter, Ivani Sandeep, in 2022. Due to unpaid hospital charges at the Salmaniya Medical Complex, the child’s birth could not be registered, leaving her undocumented for nearly three years without access to healthcare or education. Furthermore, the loss of Mr. Sandeep’s passport and the unlawful withholding of his wife’s passport by a former landlord prevented them from initiating any legal or repatriation procedures on their own. Surviving on the mercy of friends after losing their home and belongings, the family’s plight became a priority for the Pravasi Legal Cell starting in July 2025.

Under the comprehensive support of the PLC, several critical milestones were achieved, including legal coordination to resolve pending cases and the issuance of a birth certificate for the child. The organization also covered the outstanding hospital charges and arranged Emergency Certificates through the Embassy of India. While Mr. Sandeep’s wife and daughter were repatriated earlier in August 2025 with tickets provided by the Embassy, Mr. Sandeep’s return was finalized today, January 4, 2026. His return is particularly urgent as his father is currently battling a serious illness in India.

Sudheer Thirunilath, Global PRO and Bahrain Chapter President of the Pravasi Legal Cell, stated that this case highlights the harsh realities faced by undocumented migrant families and the vital importance of timely legal intervention. He expressed deep gratitude to Adv. Tariq Alown for his dedicated legal efforts, as well as the Embassy of India, Bahrain Immigration Authorities, and the Sikh Gurudwara Sahib in Salmabad for providing food and accommodation.