Showing posts with label Why are Afghan Sikhs desperate to flee to the UK?. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Why are Afghan Sikhs desperate to flee to the UK?. Show all posts

Tuesday, September 9, 2014

Why are Afghan Sikhs desperate to flee to the UK?

Afghan Sikh temple in west London
In August, 35 Afghan Sikhs were found in a container at Tilbury docks - one had died. But why are they so desperate to come to the UK?
The prayer hall at the Afghan Sikh temple in west London is packed with worshippers listening to the harmoniums and drums. Most of the people inside have at one time fled from Afghanistan. It is a country thought of as Muslim but there is a tiny minority of Sikhs, and their numbers are ever dwindling as they try to escape persecution.
Very little had been heard about Afghan Sikhs until 35 were found at Tilbury docks nearly three weeks ago. Those who were found alive in the shipping container are now claiming asylum so they can join relatives and friends already in Southall. The temple has been helping them with donations of food and clothing.
with thanks : BBC News : LINK : for detailed news.