After 20 Years in Saudi Jail, Abdul Rahim Returns Home on Bakrid for 34 Crore Taka Ransom
Abdul Rahim homecoming illustration Just before Eid al-Adha or Bakrid, emotional news came from Saudi Arabia. Abdul Rahim, a resident of Malappuram district in Kerala who spent 20 years in a Saudi jail, is finally returning home. He was released after paying 34 crore taka as 'blood money' or compensation.Background of the Incident In 2006, Abdul Rahim went to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia for work. He worked as a driver in a Saudi citizen’s house. Allegedly, due to an accident at work, a 15-month-old child died. He was arrested and in 2007, a Saudi court sentenced him to death.20 Years of Legal Fight After the death sentence, Abdul Rahim’s family and various organizations in Kerala tried for years to secure his release. Under Islamic law, if the victim’s family accepts compensation, the death penalty can be waived. This is called 'Diya' or 'blood money'.The Kerala government, charities, and common people together raised the 34 crore taka compensation. After long negotia...