Indian ministers have praised a Pakistani citizen for saving the lives of around 17 Indian pilgrims during the extreme heat of Makkah earlier this year.
Asif Bashir, a 32-year-old from Peshawar, works as a database supervisor at the Chief Minister’s Secretariat in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. During Hajj, he volunteered to assist pilgrims, demonstrating remarkable courage and compassion.
Bashir made history by saving the lives of around 26 pilgrims, including 17 Indians, who had fainted due to the extreme heat. He provided water, life-saving medicines, and even carried multiple pilgrims on his shoulder for distances of three to four kilometers.
Indian Authorities Recognized Bashir’s Bravery
Indian authorities in Saudi Arabia recognized Bashir’s bravery. Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Kiren Rijju and Minister for Women and Child Development Smriti Irani sent letters praising his exceptional humanitarian spirit. “Your dedication, compassion, and unwavering commitment to serving the pilgrims have been truly commendable,” they wrote.
Kiren Rijju expressed particular admiration for Bashir’s act of transporting patients to hospitals when ambulances and medical staff were occupied. “Your bravery will be remembered, and your actions will inspire many to follow in your footsteps,” he added.
Bashir shared with APP the details of his heroic rescue efforts. A devastating heatwave had gripped the city as pilgrims returned from Mina to Makkah. Also, faced with a surge of unconscious Indian, Pakistani, and Egyptian pilgrims, Bashir sprang into action amidst the chaos and panic.
“I stood firm and decided to save the lives of people by providing them with drinking water,” Bashir said. “During the rescue, I did not discriminate based on nationality; I aimed my whole effort at serving humanity by saving those in critical condition.
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Moreover, Bashir and his team provided drinking water and Oral Rehydration Solutions (ORS) to around 350 to 400 unconscious pilgrims, showcasing a selfless commitment to saving lives.