Given the fact that the child was born in Canada and as such, is entitled to the advanced health care available there, particularly in prosthetics, her parents lost no time in applying to the Canadian High Commission for visa. But the genuineness of Anika's case, both its humanitarian and legal aspects, simply failed to sway the immigration office in Dhaka. It was 'not satisfied' that the child needed her parents to accompany her and they were summarily denied visas.

Anika's cancer has spread from her knee to her lungs. She is in a wheelchair and cannot be expected to take care of herself independently. Although she is very brave, she needs the physical and emotional support of her parents, not only on account of her being a minor but also because of her very serious condition.

It is unthinkable that a country, admired for its civilised immigration policies, should allow its officials here to be so harsh. Isn't denying Anika parental succour at this critical time in her life tantamount to gross violation of her rights as a child and as a Canadian-born national?

Anika has written a personal letter to the Prime Minister himself, appealing that her parents be given permission to accompany her to seek advanced treatment in Canada. That would be the politically correct and compassionate thing to do and in keeping with the internationally recognised Rights of the Child.

On behalf of this beautiful young girl and her distraught and despairing parents we appeal to the Canadian immigration office to reconsider Anika's case and exercise its better judgement on the humanitarian side, rather than the prejudicial. May the Almighty be with Anika and her near and dear ones.