In every society there are individuals who quietly dedicate their lives to serving humanity without seeking recognition, publicity or personal gain. They do not wear uniforms, hold government positions or enjoy institutional support yet they become the first ray of hope for people in moments of unimaginable grief. Such individuals remind us that humanity is defined not by titles but by selfless service. Kashmir has one such humanitarian popularly known as ABU Hamza from Doda Jammu and Kashmir, a man whose unwavering commitment to recovering the bodies of drowning victims has earned him the trust, respect and gratitude of countless families across the Valley.

Whenever a drowning incident occurs in Kashmirwhether in a river, lake, canal or any other water body one name is repeatedly mentioned by distressed families Abu Hamza. In many cases before official rescue teams are mobilized or while they are still preparing for search operations grieving families desperately seek Hamza’s assistance because they believe he will leave no stone unturned in searching for their loved one. Such trust cannot be purchased or imposed it is earned through years of dedication, courage and consistent humanitarian service. The task Hamza undertakes is among the most difficult and emotionally demanding forms of public service. Searching for the body of a person who has drowned is not merely a physical challenge but also an emotional burden. Swift currents, freezing water, poor underwater visibility, unpredictable depths and dangerous terrain make every recovery operation a life threatening mission. Despite these risksHamza has repeatedly entered hazardous waters with a single purpose to help families recover the remains of their loved ones and provide them with the closure they desperately seek.
Every recovery operation represents more than just locating a body. For families it is the end of an agonising period of uncertainty. The inability to recover a loved one's body prolongs grief and leaves families in unbearable emotional distress. Abu Hamza understands this pain and perhaps that is why he has devoted himself to answering distress calls without expecting any financial reward, official recognition or personal benefit. His greatest reward appears to be the relief he brings to families during their darkest moments. Watching him recently in Gurez in search of a minors dead body and peoples demand to seek his assistance in destress forced me to think the virtues and his selfless services to the humanity without expecting any return and that makes a person great and distances him from millions.
What makes his contribution extraordinary is not simply the number of recovery operations he has participated in but the spirit in which he serves. In a world where recognition often precedes service Abu Hamza has chosen the opposite path. He serves first and remains silent afterwards. His work isdriven neither by fame nor by financial incentives. Instead, it reflects compassion, courage, empathy and an unwavering commitment to humanity. Such qualities cannot be measured in statistics or awards they are reflected in the prayers and gratitude of the families he has helped.
The values demonstrated by Hamza represent the very best of our society. Every civilisation is strengthened by individuals who voluntarily step forward to help others in times of crisis. They inspire confidence, promote social solidarity and remind us that compassion remains one of humanity's greatest strengths. AbuHamza has become a symbol of hope because he responds when people feel helpless. His actions embody selflessness in its purest form.
It is important to acknowledge that official agencies such as the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) Jammu and Kashmir Police, Fire and Emergency Services and other rescue organisations play a crucial role in responding to emergencies across the region. Their professionalism and institutional responsibilities are indispensable. However individuals like Hamza complement these efforts through their local knowledge, practical experience and immediate willingness to assist. Their contribution should not be overlooked simply because they do not operate within formal government structures. In fact, Hamza’s years of practical experience make him an invaluable resource for disaster response. His familiarity with Kashmir's rivers, lakes, and water bodies coupled with his first-hand experience in search operations could significantly strengthen official rescue capabilities if properly utilized. Governments across the world increasingly recognise the value of experienced community volunteers by integrating them into formal emergency response systems. Jammu and Kashmir has a similar opportunity.
The Government should seriously consider recognizing Hamza’s extraordinary humanitarian service through appropriate institutional support. One meaningful step would be to provide him with an opportunity to serve within the State Disaster Response Force or another suitable disaster management organisation, subject to applicable recruitment norms and procedures. His practical experience, courage and commitment would undoubtedly benefit both the institution and the people it serves. Beyond employment Hamza deserves formal public recognition. A State Award for humanitarian service, a certificate of commendation, specialised rescue training, modern diving and safety equipment, financial assistance for rescue operations and inclusion in disaster preparedness programmes would not only honour his contribution but also encourage other citizens to volunteer for humanitarian causes. Recognition is not merely about rewarding an individual, it is about demonstrating that society values courage, compassion and selfless service.
Equally important is ensuring the safety of those who voluntarily undertake such dangerous missions. Search and recovery operations expose rescuers to immense risks. Proper training, protective equipment, insurance coverage and institutional coordination can make these operations safer and more effective. If individuals like Hamza are expected to continue assisting during emergencies they deserve every possible form of professional support and protection.
The story of Hamza also highlights a broader lesson. Governments often celebrate heroism after tragedy has passed, but genuine appreciation should not wait until years later. Timely recognition motivates individuals, inspires communities and strengthens public confidence in institutions. When society honours those who dedicate themselves to serving humanity, it encourages a culture of compassion and volunteerism among younger generations.
Kashmir has witnessed countless moments of hardship natural disasters, accidents and personal tragedies that have tested the resilience of its people. During such moments individuals like Abu Hamza emerge as silent pillars of hope. They neither seek media attention nor public applause. They simply answer the call when someone needs help. Their contribution becomes part of the collective conscience of society even if it rarely finds a place in official records.
It has an opportunity for the Government in the coming Independence DayCelebrations to recognise his selfless services and reward him with the recognition which he truly deserves as it is the collective voice from Jammu to Srinagar and from every corner of Kashmir which has make him the icon of Kashmir in destress.
Every society needs role models whose actions speak louder than words. He has demonstrated that true heroism is not measured by popularity but by one's willingness to stand beside people during their most painful moments. His life reminds us that humanity transcends personal interests and that service to others remains one of the highest forms of public duty. It is therefore time for the authorities to acknowledge this remarkable humanitarian with the dignity and respect he deserves. Recognising Hamza would not merely honour one individual it would send a powerful message that selfless public service matters, that compassion is valued and that those who dedicate themselves to helping others will not remain invisible.
Kashmir is proud of many heroes but some heroes work away from the spotlight. Hamza belongs to that rare category of individuals whose legacy is written not in speeches or headlines but in the silent prayers of grieving families who found closure because he chose to help when they had nowhere else to turn. Such extraordinary service deserves more than appreciation it deserves official recognition, institutional support and lasting gratitude from the Government and the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

Email: -------------------wanimudasirnazir@gmail.com