Kozhikode Man on Saudi Death Row Set to Return Home After Crowdfunding Raises Rs 34 Crore

Abdul Rahim, a Kozhikode native who has been on death row in a Saudi Arabian jail for 18 years, is finally set to be reunited with his mother and nine close friends. This long-awaited homecoming has been made possible by a successful crowdfunding campaign that raised the required Rs 34 crore in blood money for his release.

Rahim's imprisonment began in 2006 when he was sentenced to death for causing an accidental death while working in Saudi Arabia. For nearly two decades, his family and friends have been tirelessly working to secure his freedom and bring him back to his hometown in Kerala, India.

The crowdfunding effort, spearheaded by Rahim's loved ones, garnered support from Malayalis worldwide who contributed generously to the cause. The campaign's success in raising the substantial sum of Rs 34 crore has opened the door for Rahim's release and imminent return to his homeland.

Why this matters: Rahim's story highlights the plight of many migrant workers who face legal challenges and harsh punishments in foreign countries. The success of the crowdfunding campaign demonstrates the power of community support and solidarity in securing justice and reuniting families separated by unfortunate circumstances.

Rahim's nine friends, who used to drive auto-rickshaws with him in Kodampuzha, have been eagerly awaiting his return. They fondly recall their evenings spent together under a tree at the auto stand, reminiscing about their shared experiences. Rahim had left for Saudi Arabia after obtaining a work visa from a friend, but his dreams of a better life were shattered when he was sentenced to death.

Throughout his imprisonment, Rahim's friends have maintained contact with him through video calls from the jail. While they are overjoyed at the prospect of his homecoming, they are also saddened by the fact that Rahim's father is no longer alive to welcome him back. However, they find comfort in knowing that his mother will finally be able to embrace her son after an agonizing wait of 18 years.

The successful crowdfunding campaign and the impending reunion of Abdul Rahim with his mother and friends in Kozhikode have brought a sense of relief and happiness to the community. As Rahim prepares to return home, his story serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the power of unwavering support from loved ones in the face of adversity.

Key Takeaways

• Abdul Rahim, a Kozhikode native, was on death row in Saudi Arabia for 18 years.
• A crowdfunding campaign raised Rs 34 crore to secure his release through blood money.
• Rahim's 9 friends, who worked with him, eagerly await his return to Kozhikode.
• Rahim's father passed away during his imprisonment, but his mother will welcome him home.
• The successful campaign highlights the power of community support in securing justice.