By Mohammad Hanief 

Srinagar- A Srinagar-based dental doctor, Dr. Rouf Jeelani, has appealed to the government for urgent help to bring his critically ill wife back to Kashmir from Mecca, Saudi Arabia, where she remains hospitalized after suffering a stroke during a pilgrimage.

Dr. Jeelani had traveled to Saudi Arabia with his wife to perform Umrah when she suddenly fell ill in Mecca. She was rushed to a hospital there and continues to receive treatment in a critical condition. Doctors treating her have told the family that recovery could take a long time, stretching over several months and possibly longer.

With his wife admitted far from home, Dr. Jeelani has sought support from Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. He has asked them to take up the matter with the Union Ministry of External Affairs so arrangements can be made for a medical evacuation and airlift to Srinagar, where she could continue treatment closer to her family and medical network.

In his appeal, Dr. Jeelani described the situation as overwhelming for his family. He spoke of the strain of managing a medical emergency in a foreign country while coping with uncertainty over his wife’s condition.

“I appeal to the authorities and to anyone who can help me bring my wife back to Srinagar for proper medical care,” he said. “This is the most difficult time of my life.”

Relatives, friends, and members of the local community have echoed his request, urging authorities to act quickly on humanitarian grounds. They have stressed that prompt arrangements for her transfer could play an important role in her treatment and recovery.

The family has said it remains hopeful that officials will respond to the appeal and move swiftly to help bring Dr. Jeelani’s wife home for continued care.