Abdul Rahim, a native of Kozhikode in Kerala, India, is set to be released from a Saudi prison after 18 years. Imprisoned on charges of murdering a teenage boy, Rahim's release became possible after the compensation money claimed by the victim's family was transferred to India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
Crowdfunding Success: The 'Save Abdul Rahim' campaign, initiated by an action committee under a trust, raised 15 million Saudi riyals (approximately 34 crore Indian Rupees) through crowdfunding. This is reportedly the largest crowdfunding effort in Kerala.
Compensation Payment: The funds were sent to an MEA account on May 23, fulfilling the Saudi court's requirements for Blood Money (Diya).
Legal Process: The committee informed the Saudi court about the availability of the Diya on April 15. The victim’s family agreed to accept the settlement and pardon Rahim.
Background: Abdul Rahim, a 26-year-old autorickshaw driver, moved to Saudi Arabia for better opportunities. He worked as a caretaker for a paralyzed boy. Rahim was accused of accidentally causing the boy’s death by dislodging a medical device that helped him breathe.
Death Penalty: Initially sentenced to death in 2018, Rahim's execution was upheld by the appeal court and the Supreme Court. However, the execution was temporarily suspended after the agreement to pay Diya.
