Kerala’s Largest Crowdfunding Effort: Securing Abdul Rahim’s Release from Saudi Jail

Abdul Rahim’s Release from Saudi Jail: Kerala’s Biggest Crowdfunding Effort

In a heartwarming display of solidarity and compassion, the people of Kerala have come together to raise a staggering Rs 34 crore to secure the release of Abdul Rahim. Abdul Rahim, a former auto driver from Feroke, Kozhikode, has been imprisoned in Saudi Arabia since 2018.

Abdul Rahim’s journey took a tragic turn when, in 2006, he ventured to Saudi Arabia in search of better opportunities. Employed as a house-driver in Riyadh, he diligently cared for a differently-abled 15-year-old boy within the household. However, an unforeseen accident led to the boy’s untimely demise, and Abdul Rahim found himself entangled in a legal battle that threatened his very freedom.

Under Saudi law, Abdul Rahim was sentenced to death for murder in 2018, a verdict upheld by the appeal court in 2022 and later confirmed by the country’s supreme court. However, amidst the darkness of despair, a glimmer of hope emerged when the deceased boy’s family agreed to accept diya (blood money) instead of execution, setting the stage for Abdul Rahim’s potential release.

The immense task of raising the required Rs 34 crore fell upon the shoulders of the Kerala community, led by the indefatigable efforts of people like businessman and social activist Bobby Chemmannur. Through a monumental crowdfunding campaign, Bobby and his team, and other social media  influencers embarked on a mission to mobilize support for Abdul Rahim’s cause, traversing the length and breadth of Kerala to galvanize widespread solidarity and generosity.

The response was nothing short of extraordinary. Within a mere four days, an astounding Rs 24 crore poured in from individuals across Kerala, with even Malayalis in Riyadh organizing a biriyani challenge to contribute to the cause. The outpouring of support continued unabated, with people flocking to Abdul Rahim’s house, which served as the nerve center of the crowdfunding efforts.

As the required amount was successfully raised, the committee overseeing the crowdfunding appeal urged people to cease donations, signaling a triumphant milestone in Abdul Rahim’s quest for justice and redemption.

Abdul Rahim’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience and compassion inherent in humanity. It is a testament to the power of collective action and solidarity in the face of adversity, and a testament to the unwavering commitment of individuals like Bobby Chemmannur to uphold justice and dignity for all.

As the wheels of justice turn, Abdul Rahim’s temporary reprieve offers a ray of hope for his eventual release and reunification with his loved ones. In the meantime, the spirit of compassion and solidarity that has animated Kerala’s monumental crowdfunding effort continues to inspire, reminding us all of the boundless potential for positive change when we stand together as one community, united in purpose and compassion.