As the new beginning started in June, a fresh assault surfaced too. Two Muslim youth hailing from Southern Assam’s Patharkandi, Sribhumi District, were attacked by Bishnupriya Hindu Manipuris on June 1, allegedly for cattle theft.
The youths, identified as Amir Uddin, aged 17, and Islam Uddin, aged 18, were on a quest for their cattle in a Hindu-dominated neighborhood falling across the Karimganj-Agartala highway when the attack occurred. According to the family, they were first beaten with sticks and batons, and after that, shots were fired at both of them. Amir Uddin sustained six gunshot wounds, while Islam Uddin sustained five gunshot wounds.

However, the horror did not stop here. Both the cousins take their roots from a family struggling to make ends meet. The medical bills compounded the anxiety and treatment needed urgency. Left in anguish, the family prayed for a glimmer of hope. Shortly after that, their prayers reached the Miles2Smile organization. The organization reviewed the cousins’ medical reports and covered the necessary medical expenses. In addition, they were connected with the organization’s medical professionals, who closely monitored their treatment, provided ongoing guidance throughout the recovery process, and extended support whenever required.

At Miles2Smile we believe in delivering assistance to the survivors of mob lynchings, communal violence, targeted demolition, and hate crimes. To walk with them in every fold of atrocities, the organization has incorporated separate initiatives, each aligning with the assistance required. To provide medical assistance, the initiative Sehat steps in.

Under our initiative Sehat, we are dedicated to improving the health and well-being of slum dwellers and other marginalized communities. Our efforts begin with on-ground surveys to understand the specific health challenges faced by these groups. Based on our findings, we organize free medical and health camps, providing essential care and support. These camps are conducted under the guidance of experienced doctors and medical professionals, ensuring quality healthcare reaches those who need it most. Through Sehat, we aim to create healthier communities by addressing both immediate medical needs and promoting long-term awareness about hygiene and preventive care.

Amir and Islam, both after receiving the medical assistance, found the comfort they yearned for. While the first visuals shared by their uncle showed them wrestling in pain, with bodies black and blue from the assaults, the latest visuals show them eating healthy food, with their bodies indicating signs of recovery. In the meantime, the visuals reminded the organization of the vision: Create a World Where Everyone Has a Reason to Smile.
About Miles2Smile: The Miles2Smile Foundation, established six years ago, is committed to making a meaningful difference in marginalized communities across India. From responding to the crisis during the pandemic to its continuous work in education and advocacy, the foundation remains devoted to fostering a more inclusive and equitable society. The foundation work for the survivors of mob lynching, communal violence, demolition, and hate crime, creating their lives better than their devastation.