Indian ministers praise Pakistani man for his heroic efforts in saving the lives of around 17 Indian pilgrims during the extreme heat of Makkah’s Hajj earlier this year.
Asif Bashir, a 32-year-old database supervisor at the Chief Minister’s Secretariat in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, was volunteering during Hajj to assist pilgrims. His bravery and compassion were highlighted when he provided water, life-saving medicines, and physically carried multiple pilgrims over three to four kilometers.
Asif Bashir’s quick thinking saved around 26 pilgrims, including 17 Indians, who had fainted due to the intense heat. His actions were recognized by Indian authorities in Saudi Arabia.
“Your dedication, compassion, and unwavering commitment to serving the pilgrims have been truly commendable,” stated Indian Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Kiren Rijju and Minister for Women and Child Development Smriti Irani in letters to Bashir.
Kiren Rijju added, “I am particularly impressed by your remarkable act of kindness and bravery in providing first aid and transporting patients to hospitals on your shoulder when ambulances and medical staff were occupied.”
Asif Bashir recounted the harrowing situation, sharing that a heatwave had struck Makkah when the pilgrims returned from Mina. Overwhelmed by the number of unconscious Indian, Pakistani, and Egyptian pilgrims, Bashir sprang into action, providing essential aid without discrimination.
“We provided drinking water and ORS to around 350 to 400 pilgrims who had become fully unconscious,” Bashir told APP.
His bravery and dedication have left a lasting impact, inspiring many with his selfless actions during a time of crisis.
