Text Credits: Kennie Thomas

Al Ameen, a 19 year old student from Jamia Millia Islamia University, started the 4,250km long solo bicycle trip from Srinagar to Kanyakumari on June 2 and plans to reach Kanyakumari by July 23.  Originally from  Kazhakkoottam in Thiruvananthapuram, Al Ameen embarked upon this long adventure to create awareness about sexual abuse against children. Ameen, a first year sociology honours student is sponsored partially by Gandhi Global Foundation (GGF), an organisation headed by senior Congress leader and former Union Health Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad.

The student was admitted at a hospital in Karnataka following a severe illness. The scorching heat of the North and the heavy rains of the South were believed to be the reason behind his weakened health. Against all odds, Ameen continued his journey towards Kerala after a day at the hospital.  “I want to encourage students to actively participate in finding solutions to the problems faced by the community around them,” said Al Ameen, who had been clocking around 80km a day. Neither the heavy monsoon rains nor his weakened health could dampen the spirit of this 19 year old.

Source: The Hindu

“The cases of abuse against children are on the rise every year. In 2012, there were 38,000 cases reported only in India. In 2015, the number reached 56,000, the country witnessed a 60 per cent spike,” said Ameen. When asked why he chose cycling to spread his cause, the youngster said, “For me, the cycle is just the tool to attract attention to my larger goal”.

The parching heat of the North along with the numerous receptions and programmes were tying him down from finishing the journey on time. Ameen was reportedly said to be cycling at nights to make up for the time lost. Upon reaching Kerala, Ameen had been accorded receptions at schools in  Ernakulam, Alappuzha, Kollam, and Thiruvananthapuram. All the receptions were organised by district child protection officers of the Women and Child Development Department to spread awareness on child abuse among students.

Such righteous acts are seldom done, let alone by a 19 year old.  This student deserves recognition and appreciation for both the act and cause.

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