New Delhi: The life of Dr. SPS Oberoi, a prominent Punjabi businessman based in Dubai, was forever changed by an incident that stirred his deep sense of justice and compassion. In 2010, when news broke about the death sentence handed to 17 Indian nationals in the murder of Pakistani national Misri Khan, Dr. Oberoi was deeply moved
Dr. Oberoi repeatedly visited the jail where the accused were held, seeking to understand the circumstances behind Khan's death. As he spent time with the incarcerated Indian youth and reviewed the details of the case, Dr. Oberoi became convinced that Misri Khan had been a victim of a violent group conflict, not a premeditated murder by the 17 Indians. This revelation ignited in him a sense of responsibility—he could not stand by and allow these young lives to be taken.
Refusing to accept the harsh fate awaiting them, Dr. Oberoi took it upon himself to intervene. He studied the case, consulted legal experts, and worked tirelessly to negotiate with the authorities. His relentless efforts eventually led to a decision that would save the 17 youths from the gallows. Dr. Oberoi secured their release by paying a staggering US$1.2 million as blood money, a gesture that would forever change the course of his life.
This act of extraordinary compassion did not just free 17 innocent young men; it transformed Dr. Oberoi from a successful businessman into a world-renowned philanthropist, earning him the title of "Saviour Sikh." His selflessness and determination to right a profound wrong became a powerful testament to the impact of one individual's actions in the face of injustice.
Through this experience, Dr. Oberoi learned a crucial lesson: that it is not enough to succeed in business; one must also stand up for what is right, especially when the lives of others are at stake. His journey from a businessman to a humanitarian is a powerful reminder that true greatness lies in the willingness to act for the greater good, even when it comes at a personal cost.
To date, Dr. Oberoi has saved 142 persons from the gallows and life imprisonment, and is still contesting in around 37 such cases