Sanaa, July 17 (V7N) – The execution of Indian nurse Nimisha Priya, who was sentenced to death in Yemen, has been suspended, according to the Indian Ministry of External Affairs, citing credible sources.
The 2020 death sentence was scheduled to be carried out today (Wednesday, July 17). Nimisha Priya is currently held in a prison in the Houthi-controlled capital, Sanaa, where she has been serving time for the murder of her Yemeni business associate, Talal Abdo Mahdi.
India's Diplomatic Efforts
The Indian government had made an urgent appeal to the Houthi authorities in recent days to halt the execution, citing humanitarian concerns and seeking time to explore legal and diplomatic solutions.
While no decision has yet been made regarding her release or repatriation, the temporary suspension of the execution is seen as a positive development by Indian officials and human rights advocates.
Background of the Case
Nimisha Priya, a nurse from the Indian state of Kerala, was convicted in 2020 for murdering Mahdi, reportedly after a business dispute. According to case documents, she was accused of injecting him with sedatives that led to his death, and then attempting to conceal the crime.
Supporters of Nimisha claim she was trapped in an abusive partnership and acted in self-defense and desperation. Her family and civil society groups in India have been actively campaigning for her clemency, including raising funds for “blood money” — compensation to the victim’s family, which under Yemeni Sharia law could potentially commute the death sentence.
What Happens Next?
Indian officials are continuing diplomatic back-channel communications to resolve the matter, but any release or commutation will likely depend on:
-
Negotiations with Yemeni tribal and legal authorities
-
The acceptance of blood money by the victim’s family
-
The evolving political situation in Houthi-controlled Yemen
Meanwhile, Priya’s family in Kerala has welcomed the news and expressed hope for her eventual return home.
Global Attention
The case has gained international attention, with calls from various rights groups and political figures for compassion and clemency, especially amid the ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis in Yemen.
This is a developing story, and further updates are expected as negotiations progress.
END/RH/AJ
Comment: