The returnees took their allotted places in the long barracks, which were divided into small rooms. At that time in the hall, situated in the front of the compound, the manager of the farm, the members of the local CPC, the members of the Receiving Committee and the representative of the Overseas Chinese Affairs Commission were present. The returnees freshened up and congregated there. The meeting began.

After the introduction was over, the officer of the Receiving Committee stood up to speak.

‘Our great Chairman Mao is trying to build the best state in the modern world. He not only thinks about the Chinese people living in China, but is committed to all the Chinese living outside as well. China has accepted thousands of refugees of Chinese origin. We all must be grateful to our great Chairman Mao. At the same time, we all must be committed to the great cause. Leaving aside all unreasonable ideas and beliefs, we must devote ourselves to successfully build our Communist China from all sides. We hope you will follow all the rules of this farm sincerely and mould yourselves into good citizens of Communist China,’ the officer said.

The manager of the farm was next.

‘Three farming experts will be with you to guide you in your work. You must follow their directions. No objections will be entertained. How you lived in India is not our concern. Here you are all equals. Everyone must work. You will get wages. You have to maintain yourself with these wages. How much wage you earn will depend on the points you score through your work. One dispensary and a canteen will be opened for you. There will be a primary school for the children. The responsibility to teach the children is entrusted with Chow Chi Yong, Liang Ching Wan and Pramila Gogoi …’ After a long speech the manager sat down.

The returnees continued looking at them, not knowing how to react.

‘Liang Ching Wan,’ a member of the local CPC called out.

Liang Ching Wan stood up, worried.

‘Our central committee has mentioned your name specially. We congratulate you officially for your loyalty to Communist China. It’s a special honour.’

Liang Ching Wan was elated. He looked at the officials, speechless.

‘Please come over here. Let’s get introduced properly,’ the local CPC leader said and smiled.

Walking past the astonished faces of the returnees, Liang Ching Wan headed towards the dais.

Seven

Seven

Carrying a basket on her back, Mei Lin was walking down a trail in the middle of a vast field, filled with people busy with cultivation. Her walk, her posture and her expression reflected an acute sense of unease.