Citizens of Kerala have come together in a show of solidarity, harnessing the power of crowdfunding to amass a staggering 34 crore rupees. This monumental effort aims at rescuing Abdul Rahim, a native of Kozhikode, who awaits the death sentence in a Saudi Arabian prison.
Having traveled to Riyadh on a house driver visa in 2006, Rahim not only performed his driving duties but also cared for a Saudi boy with a disability. Tragically, the boy lost his life in an accident, leading to Rahim's conviction and death sentence in 2018. However, following continuous advocacy, the boy's family consented to pardon Abdul in exchange for a 'blood money' settlement of 34 crores rupees.
Rahim Expresses Gratitude
The Legal Action Committee has been instrumental in raising these funds, which will be channeled through the Ministry of External Affairs to the Indian Embassy in Riyadh, facilitating Rahim’s release. Overwhelmed by this gesture, Abdul Rahim has thanked the people and legal community for their relentless efforts, boldly referring to this as the "Real Kerala Story".
The SAVEABDULRAHIM App's Role in Fundraising
The committee took to modern technology by introducing the SAVEABDULRAHIM application for the fundraiser, successfully gathering over 30 crore rupees. Abdul's imminent return home is now a beacon of hope, thanks to the united front of NRIs, influential individuals, merchants, and social activists who spearheaded campaigns. The committee has ceased the collection, having met the required amount, and no further donations will be accepted.
Kerala, A Bastion of Brotherhood: CM Pinarayi Vijayan
Kerala's Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan responded to this news by declaring the state a fortress of brotherhood, impenetrable by divisiveness. This act of coming together of Malayalis worldwide to collect 34 crore rupees epitomizes a profound instance of human love and compassion, driven by the intrinsic desire to save a life and alleviate a family's distress.
