At a time when religious sentiments have become a poll plank in the political landscape of West Bengal, a young Muslim man from Palashi, Nadia, has emerged as a beacon of humanity, proving that humanity is much above politics.
Nasim Malita, a 27-year-old youth, set aside the ongoing Ramadan rituals to save life of a Hindu woman, sending a powerful message of unity in a society often divided by faith.
The incident took place at Jawaharlal Nehru Hospital in Kalyani, where Sangeeta Ghosh, a woman from Majdia in the same district suffering from severe kidney-related ailments, was in urgent need of blood. Her son, Sanju Ghosh, desperately searched for a donor when he reached out to a voluntary organization. The call for help eventually reached Nasim, who has been a regular blood donor.
However, there was one complication — Nasim was observing his fast as part of Ramadan ritual. Despite this, he did not hesitate for a moment. Without any second thought, he rushed to the hospital, broke his fast, and donated blood. Following the doctor's advice, he replenished himself after the donation, but his message was loud and clear: humanity must always come first.
"I have donated blood many times before, and I will continue to do so. Saving a life is the greatest act of service. There is nothing to fear in donating blood. It only helps others," Nasim said, emphasising the importance of voluntary blood donation.
In a state where religion is often wielded as a political tool to divide, Nasim’s act stands as a reminder that the essence of all faiths lies in compassion. His selflessness resonated with many, including Sangeeta’s brother Sanju, who expressed his heartfelt gratitude.
“Thank you, Nasimda. I have donated blood myself before, but what he did despite fasting is truly admirable. I believe that saving a life is the greatest religion, beyond all divides of caste, creed, or faith. Humanity must come first,” said Sanju.
At a time when political forces in Bengal are seeking to exploit religious differences to polarise electorates, Nasim’s act reaffirm the shared humanity that binds people together. His gesture is not just an individual act of kindness; it is a statement against the divisive politics that overshadow the fundamental values of human dignity and solidarity.