Prominent developer Daljit Thind has become the first Indo Canadian businessman to offer accommodation to Syrian refugees heading to this part of the world.

Thind confirmed to the Straight that his company has decided to offer seven units to the refugees who are likely to arrive soon in Canada. He said that being an immigrant himself, he understands the necessity to open doors and hearts for refugees.

Thind came to Canada from India in 1993. Like other immigrants, he had to struggle hard to make a place for himself in an alien land. He began his career as construction worker and today he owns many properties and is one of the successful and influential businessmen in the local Punjabi community.

Ever since Liberals came to power after the October 19 federal election, Canada has opened its doors for refugees from war-torn Syria.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced that he is going to take 25,000 Syrian refugees by the end of this year. In spite of hostilities running high following recent Paris attack that left 129 people dead, Trudeau and the B.C. government are gearing up to receive refugees. BC alone is likely to receive 3,000 refugees.

Trudeau is facing pressure from right-wing groups to put on hold his election promise. They have also launched petitions seeking ban on entry of refugees, while human rights groups, like No One is Illegal has also launched a petition in support of refugees.

Thind made the announcement in response to a call given out by Spice Radio and the nonprofit service provider and immigration-settlement agency, Progressive Intercultural Community Services. They jointly started an awareness campaign to encourage people to offer basement suites for refugees.

Thind is the first Indo Canadian businessman to come forward with a concrete offer.