Forgotten Society: Indian businessman pays Rs. 2.5 cr to free 900 from the UAE jails
Virendra Pandit
New Delhi: In a unique example of philanthropy, an Indian businessman and philanthropist donated Rs. 2.5 crore to get nearly 900 prisoners freed in the last couple of months from jails in the UAE, the media reported on Tuesday.
Not only this, Feroz Merchant set a goal for 2024 to help over 3,000 prisoners go free.
Merchant, the 66-year-old owner of Pure Gold Jewelers, is known for his “The Forgotten Society” initiatives, the reports said, adding his initiative has helped over 20,000 prisoners over the years.
According to reports, he donated 1 million dirhams (Rs 2.5 crore) to secure the release of 900 prisoners from jails across the Gulf nation since the beginning of 2024.
This is a message of humility, humanity, forgiveness, and kindness ahead of the Muslim holy month of Ramzan, Merchant’s office said.
“Prominent Dubai-based Indian businessman and philanthropist Firoz Merchant of Pure Gold has donated close to AED 1 million to ensure the release of 900 prisoners from jails across the Arabian nation,” said the statement.
The Arab prisoners freed included 495 from Ajman, 170 prisoners from Fujairah, 121 prisoners from Dubai, 69 prisoners from Umm Al Quwain, and 28 from Ras Al Khaimah.
Merchant also paid their debts and provided airfare for them to return home, aiming to reunite families and offer a second shot at life, according to Maagulf, an online news portal for the Telugu community residing in the Gulf.
In conjunction with the Directors-General of Police at the Central Jails across the UAE, Merchant’s initiative has helped over 20,000 prisoners over the years, earning him accolades from government officials and prisoners alike.
“I am grateful for the collaboration with the government. The Forgotten Society believes that humanity knows no borders, and we work together to offer these individuals the chance to reconcile with their families and communities,” said Merchant.
Colonel Mohammed Yusuf Al-Matrooshi, a UAE official, commended Merchant’s dedication to prisoner rehabilitation.
“He has helped countless individuals, and his quiet generosity offers genuine hope to those struggling to pay their fines,” Al-Matrooshi said.
