India has nominated a Pakistani citizen for its esteemed civil award in recognition of his courage and humanity, which saved over 40 pilgrims during Hajj 2024.
During the previous Hajj season, Asif Bashir gained widespread admiration for rescuing 44 individuals, including 24 Indian nationals, from extreme heat. Despite the lack of immediate medical aid, he heroically led the pilgrims to safety.
Read more: Hajj Policy 2025: Government Hajj Cost for Pakistanis?
The Indian government has acknowledged his selfless actions and invited him to receive the award on January 26, 2025.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has requested detailed reports from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Religious Affairs, and the Pakistani Embassy in Saudi Arabia regarding Bashir’s bravery. The premier plans to honour Bashir in Pakistan before his visit to India to accept the award.
