Dubai NRI doubles Bollywood star SRK's donation for Chennai relief

A Non-Resident Indian businessman from Dubai has donated [Indian] Rs20 million to provide food, shelter, medicines, drinking water and other flood relief requirements of Chennai flood victims.

Dr Siddiq Ahmed, Chairman and Managing Director of Eram-ITL Group, has handed over two cheques worth Indian Rs2 crore to help the flood victims.

The Kerala Chief Minister, Oommen Chandy, and Minister Shibu Baby John, United Nations Information Center head for India and Bhutan, were present when the relief amount was handed over this Sunday.

Dr Siddiq Ahmed seen here with Shah Rukh Khan. (Supplied)

Speaking to Emirates 24|7, Dr Ahmed said he was saddened to see the living conditions of flood victims and he has taken the decision to donate the amount, which is double the amount donated by Indian celebrities such as Shah Rukh Khan, after taking part in sending relief material from the Calicut Railway Station to Chennai.

The neighbouring state of Kerala has extended a helping hand to the flood victims in Chennai, and many celebrities and businessmen have come forward with donations.  Superstars such as Mammootty, Mohan Lal and Prithviraj are among celebrities who have donated for the flood relief efforts.

“Out of about 10,000 employees who work in the Eram –ITL group in Saudi Arabia and Dubai, many hail from Tamil Nadu and some of their families are affected by the floods. During the initial years of business, many Tamil managers and employees worked for the growth of Eram Group and we urge the other NRIs and businessmen to keep aside the money they plan to spend for the New Year celebrations.

“The Chennai floods is the latest natural calamity that reminds us that global warming is a reality and poses a bigger challenge to humanity. On such tragic occasions, it is our duty to help fellow human beings and I wish others follow suit and instead of spending money for New Year celebrations, money should be spent for charity like this.”

Dr Ahmed routed his donations to the Chennai flood victims through Mathrubhoomi and Malayala Manorama’s relief funds.