Service to the People is Service to the Divine: Seeking the Sacred in the Lives of the Poor

Clarity of purpose, when coupled with unwavering resolve, renders criticism peripheral. Ridicule, misrepresentation, deliberate obstruction, and even orchestrated slander lose their potency when one remains anchored to a clearly defined moral objective. Those who misconstrue or malign sincere efforts often do so within the confines of their own limited perception. The appropriate response is neither indignation nor retaliation, but disciplined reflection.

Indeed, if one’s mission were instantaneously understood and universally endorsed, it is doubtful that any enduring or transformative achievement would emerge. Resistance, in this sense, is not merely an obstacle; it is formative. It sharpens conviction, refines strategy, and fortifies moral endurance. One may therefore remain grateful—even towards detractors—for they contribute, albeit unintentionally, to the making of steadfast individuals.

On 22 June 2023, observed globally as World Refugee Day, I visited the Sri Lankan Tamil Rehabilitation Centre in Tamil Nadu to engage directly with women residing there and to document their concerns. Travelling from Puzhal, I undertook a two-hour journey by motorcycle across uneven terrain and in physically demanding conditions, as this was the only feasible option within my limited financial means.

Having recorded the grievances presented, I proceeded to New Delhi to place these matters before Ms Rekha Sharma, then Chairperson of the National Commission for Women. Owing to financial constraints, an overnight stay in Delhi was not viable. I therefore travelled on the earliest available morning flight, met Madam Sharma, formally submitted the petition, and engaged in substantive discussion regarding the issues affecting the women. I returned the same evening and reached home at four o’clock the following morning.

Madam Sharma advised that I meet Ms Khushbu Sundar, who was responsible for matters relating to Tamil Nadu, and she kindly facilitated the introduction.

Subsequently, on 25 November 2023, I met Madam Khushbu Sundar and discussed in detail the challenges faced by women within the rehabilitation centres. She assured me that she would personally examine the matter.

It must be acknowledged that both the Government of Tamil Nadu and the Government of India have extended considerable institutional support and facilities to Sri Lankan Tamils residing in India. Nonetheless, a discernible gap remains in awareness among segments of the refugee population concerning the legal frameworks and administrative procedures governing their status. This informational deficit has, in certain instances, enabled opportunistic actors to exploit vulnerabilities for personal gain, mislead residents, and pursue self-interest under the guise of representation.

It is, however, reassuring that administrative mechanisms exist within each rehabilitation centre to report such misconduct to the appropriate authorities. When effectively implemented and strengthened through oversight, these structures can function as meaningful safeguards against exploitation.

I record my sincere gratitude to both the Tamil Nadu State Government and the Government of India for the provisions and institutional protection extended to Sri Lankan Tamils. Such support warrants formal acknowledgment.

Postscript

It must also be recognised that certain entrenched socio-cultural dynamics persist within some Sri Lankan Tamil rehabilitation centres in India. These include factionalism, recurring interpersonal disputes, patronage networks, and group-based rivalries. In some instances, administrative procedures are inconsistently implemented, and welfare institutions may lack adequate capacity, guidance, or supervisory mechanisms to ensure equitable and efficient governance.

These structural and cultural deficiencies weaken social cohesion, diminish institutional credibility, and adversely affect beneficiary welfare outcomes. Addressing such challenges requires not merely policy provision, but sustained civic education, transparent administrative practice, strengthened accountability frameworks, and responsible community leadership.

Nila Bala (Balananthini Balasubramaniam)

Small Drops NGO

Great Britain

26 February 2024