Dubai: A complaint has been lodged alleging an unauthorised sale of the world’s longest handwritten Quran, which holds a Guinness World Record.

The complaint was filed by Kozhikode native and Dubai-based art gallery owner Mohammed Dileef, who runs an art gallery at Wafi Residence in Dubai Healthcare City. He has accused Jamsheer Vadageriyil from Alathur in Palakkad of selling the Quran without permission and absconding with the money. The petition was submitted to the Kerala Chief Minister and the Palakkad district police chief.

Dileef alleged that after selling the Quran, Jamsheer fled the UAE with the proceeds. He also told a press conference in Dubai that he is preparing to file complaints with Dubai Police and the Indian Consulate.

According to Dileef, it took him three years of hard work to complete the Quran calligraphy, which had earlier drawn much attention when displayed at the Sharjah International Book Fair. A businessman had even offered a large sum to purchase it, but Dileef said he had declined the offer, he added.

He further said that about 10 months ago, Jamsheer approached him claiming that the Qur’an could be handed over to senior government officials in Dubai. Their acquaintance soon developed into friendship.

Dileef alleged that when he cited difficulties in keeping the Quran at his gallery, Jamsheer took it for safekeeping with a businessman. However, Jamsheer went on to sell it for ₹24 lakh to the businessman without informing Dileef, he added. Jamsheer then allegedly returned to India, leaving Dileef facing what he describes as severe financial loss and emotional distress.