Marital discord and infidelity resolved by counselors in Sharjah, aiding distressed couples.
The Indian Association Sharjah's R.I.S.E. Initiative Offers Hope to Expatriates in Crisis
The Indian Association Sharjah (IAS) has launched a new initiative called R.I.S.E. (Reach, Inspire, Support, and Empower) to help Indian expats facing domestic conflicts and emotional distress. This move comes in response to the recent suicides of two Indian women from Kerala in Sharjah.
R.I.S.E., which began operations on August 2, 2025, aims to provide emotional, psychological, legal, and financial guidance to those in need. The initiative operates in collaboration with the Sharjah Police’s Community Preventive and Protection Department and the Consulate General of India in Dubai.
The R.I.S.E. team, comprising over 25 trained counsellors, has already made a significant impact in less than two weeks. They have registered close to 30 cases, with the majority involving marital disputes, financial troubles, and job-related conflicts, but also including child custody battles, domestic abuse, and unresolved domestic violence.
One such case involved a woman contemplating suicide due to marital issues. The IAS counsellors mediated between the couple, convincing them to have open conversations and involve their son in the dialogue. The husband, who felt insecure and wanted a divorce, and the wife, terrified he would go through with it, were able to find a way forward with the help of IAS.
In another instance, a husband and wife approached IAS due to constant arguments over decision-making at home, stemming from ego issues. The counsellors helped them understand the destructive nature of ego in relationships and encouraged them to take small steps towards reconciliation.
The IAS also has a legal department to advise on employment disputes or contractual issues. They work closely with the Indian Consulate in Dubai and the Sharjah Police's Community Preventive and Protection Department for cases requiring legal or official intervention.
Confidentiality is a cornerstone of the work at IAS. On Saturdays, more than eight counsellors are present for one-on-one, confidential sessions. The association emphasizes that people share private details such as financial troubles, personal habits, and intimate concerns, and these are treated with the utmost respect and discretion.
Nissar Thalangara, president of IAS, stated that the encouraging response to R.I.S.E. proves the need for such a platform in the community. He believes that people are coming forward because they want to live a happier life. Thalangara also mentioned that cases where couples refuse to compromise can be equally damaging if left unaddressed.
In cases involving child passport disputes, unresolved domestic violence, and employment disputes or contractual issues, IAS refers the cases to the appropriate bodies. Sometimes, all a person needs is someone to listen, according to Thalangara, and IAS can at least give them relief and a plan to move forward, even if not every problem is solved overnight.
Trust is the foundation of the work at IAS. Clients are more open to share their problems when they know they will not be discussed outside the counselling room. The association plans to continue the weekly Saturday sessions, but is ready to add more days if needed, as every case is different and requires varying amounts of time.
[1] Indian Association Sharjah Launches R.I.S.E. Initiative to Help Indian Expats in Crisis [2] Indian Association Sharjah Saves Kerala Teacher from Suicide [3] Indian Association Sharjah and Sharjah Police Collaborate to Combat Domestic Violence [4] Indian Association Sharjah's R.I.S.E. Initiative Addresses Variety of Domestic Issues [5] Indian Association Sharjah's R.I.S.E. Initiative Helps Couples in Crisis
[6] The IAS' R.I.S.E. Initiative aims to offer support on a wide range of topics, including entertainment, mental health, and lifestyle concerns that affect expats living in the UAE. [7] In addition to providing guidance in times of crisis, the R.I.S.E. Initiative also encourages healthy family dynamics, promoting harmony within relationships and creating an environment conducive to personal growth and health-and-wellness improvement.
