By Syed Zubair Ahmad
The story of Wakeel Hassan, a hero in the Uttarakhand tunnel rescue operation, echoes the plight of Dr. Kafeel Khan, who faced repercussions for his valiant actions during the Gorakhpur hospital crisis. Both individuals, celebrated for their bravery, found themselves ensnared in adversity in Modi’s India.
The tumultuous events unfolded when a section of the Silkyara Bend-Barkot tunnel in Uttarakhand collapsed, trapping 41 workers inside. Despite extensive efforts by state and central governments over 17 days, including the use of American Auger machines, vertical drilling, and blasting, the trapped workers remained beyond reach. It wasn’t until Wakeel Hassan’s expertise, through his company Rockwell Enterprises, was enlisted that a breakthrough occurred. Hassan’s team spearheaded a daring rescue operation that eventually freed the trapped workers, earning him widespread recognition for his courage and resourcefulness.
This narrative of heroism takes a dark turn when juxtaposed with the ordeal faced by Dr. Kafeel Khan. In August 2017, Dr. Kafeel garnered national acclaim for his selfless efforts to procure oxygen cylinders with his own funds during a crisis at the Gorakhpur hospital. However, his heroic status swiftly evaporated as he was removed from his position as nodal officer and later arrested, spending nine months in jail under dubious charges.
In a chilling parallel, Wakeel Hassan, hailed as a savior in the Uttarakhand tunnel collapse, found himself targeted in a manner reminiscent of Dr. Kafeel’s ordeal. Despite his heroic deeds, Hassan’s home in Khajoori Khas was demolished by the Delhi Development Authority (DDA), allegedly without due process. His family, including his wife and children, were left displaced, forced to take refuge on the footpath outside their razed home.
The demolition of Hassan’s house raises disturbing questions about selective targeting and discrimination. Hassan himself pointed out that while his home was razed to the ground, neighboring Hindu households remained untouched. This stark contrast underscores suspicions of religious bias and systemic injustice.
The DDA attempted to justify the demolition by stating that Hassan’s family had been informed beforehand and had adequate time for evacuation. However, it was only after the demolition that officials claimed to have become aware of Hassan’s involvement in the Uttarkashi tunnel rescue.
However, there is a glaring inconsistency in the DDA’s explanation. They assert that they were unaware of Wakeel Hassan’s pivotal role in the tunnel rescue operation. Yet, had they contacted Hassan or his family, they would have been informed of his involvement and urged the DDA to reconsider their decision.
Disputing the DDA’s clarification, Hassan asserted that he was never informed or contacted by DDA authorities regarding the impending demolition. He described the demolition as akin to a covert operation, carried out under the cover of night without any prior notice or communication.
The parallels between Dr. Kafeel and Wakeel Hassan’s ordeals offer a chilling glimpse into the perils faced by those who dare to be heroes in Modi’s India. Instead of adulation and gratitude, they are met with suspicion, persecution, and discrimination. The systematic targeting of individuals like Dr. Kafeel and Wakeel Hassan sends a chilling message – that even acts of heroism are not immune to the politicization and prejudice that pervade contemporary Indian society.
“My house was selectively targeted because we are Muslims. Why were the houses of our Hindu neighbors left untouched? Isn’t this discrimination?” questioned Kafeel’s wife, drawing attention to the apparent bias.
“The house of Ashok Goel is on the left side, and Pradeep Jain’s house is on the right side of Wakeel Hassan. Yet, they not only demolished our house but also erected a cemented wall within a few hours, further exacerbating our distress” she added.
Expressing his frustration, Wakeel Hassan stated, “Only my house has been demolished. There are other houses surrounding mine, both on the left and right sides, as well as behind and in front. Yet, I was singled out. I haven’t done anything wrong; I haven’t committed any crime. They demolished my house simply because my name is Wakeel Hasan.”
In the face of such adversity, the stories of Dr. Kafeel Khan and Wakeel Hassan serve as a sobering reminder of the challenges inherent in navigating the complex landscape of identity, politics, and justice in Modi’s India. As their struggles continue to unfold, they stand as beacons of resilience and defiance, refusing to be silenced or sidelined in the pursuit of justice, and dignity.
This is pathetic
Pathetic country indeed
Please can you share the mobile number of Wakeel Hassan a Rat Hole Miner whose house was demolished by the BJPee Government.