Indian ministers have lauded a Pakistani citizen, Asif Bashir, for his extraordinary heroism during Hajj earlier this year, where he saved the lives of approximately 17 Indian pilgrims amidst extreme heat in Makkah.
Bashir, a 32-year-old database supervisor from Peshawar working at the Chief Minister’s Secretariat Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, was volunteering to assist pilgrims during the Hajj pilgrimage.
Bashir’s actions were nothing short of remarkable. Despite the intense heat, he provided critical aid, including water and life-saving medicines. He even carried several pilgrims on his shoulders for distances of up to four kilometers to ensure their safety. His efforts helped save around 26 pilgrims, including the 17 Indians, who had fainted due to the severe heat.
The Indian authorities in Saudi Arabia took note of Bashir’s bravery. Indian Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Kiren Rijju and Minister for Women and Child Development Smriti Irani sent letters praising him for his exceptional humanitarian work.
Rijju’s letter, shared with the media, highlighted Bashir’s “dedication, compassion, and unwavering commitment” and noted his heroic actions in providing first aid and transporting patients when other resources were overwhelmed.
In his recount of the rescue, Bashir described how the heatwave gripped Makkah as pilgrims returned from Mina. Many were succumbing to the extreme conditions, including a surge of unconscious Indian, Pakistani, and Egyptian pilgrims.
Despite the chaos, Bashir focused on providing water and oral rehydration solutions to those in dire need, demonstrating his commitment to humanity without regard for nationalities.
Bashir’s bravery and selflessness have left a lasting impact, inspiring others with his dedication to saving lives in such dire circumstances.
