Latest update in Nimisha Priya Case: Execution Postponed, Diplomatic Efforts Intensify
The case of Nimisha Priya, a Kerala nurse facing a death sentence in Yemen for the 2017 murder of Yemeni national Talal Abdo Mahdi, has seen significant developments in recent days. Originally scheduled for execution on July 16, 2025, Yemeni authorities have postponed the execution, offering a temporary reprieve following intense diplomatic efforts and negotiations led by the Indian government and the Save Nimisha Priya International Action Council. Here are the latest updates:
Execution Postponed Amid Diplomatic Push
On July 15, 2025, just hours before the scheduled execution, Yemeni authorities deferred Nimisha Priya’s death sentence. The postponement followed overnight negotiations involving Indian officials, religious leaders from Kerala, and the victim’s family. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed the development, stating that it has been working tirelessly to secure more time for Priya’s family to negotiate a blood money settlement, known as diyah under Yemen’s Sharia law, which could potentially lead to her pardon.
“The Indian government has provided legal assistance, appointed a lawyer, and arranged regular consular visits while maintaining contact with local authorities and friendly governments,” an MEA spokesperson said.
The efforts were supported by prominent figures, including Kerala’s Grand Mufti, Kanthapuram A.P. Aboobacker Musliyar, who facilitated communication with Yemeni clerics to persuade Mahdi’s family. Despite the lack of formal diplomatic ties with the Houthi-controlled administration in Sana’a, India has leveraged informal channels to push for a resolution.
Victim’s Family Demands Qisas
Despite the postponement, the victim’s family remains firm in their demand for Qisas, an Islamic legal principle of equitable retaliation, which in this case means Priya’s execution. Talal Abdo Mahdi’s brother, Abdelfattah Mahdi, told BBC Arabic:
“We will accept nothing less than God’s Law in Qisas. Claims of abuse by my brother are misleading and fabricated by Indian media.”
This stance has complicated negotiations for a blood money settlement, as the family has consistently refused diyah offers, including approximately $58,000 raised through crowdfunding by Priya’s supporters.
Background of the Case
Nimisha Priya, a 38-year-old nurse from Kollengode, Palakkad, Kerala, moved to Yemen in 2008 to work in a government hospital. In 2014, she partnered with Mahdi to open a clinic, as Yemeni law required a local sponsor. Priya alleges that Mahdi subjected her to financial exploitation, physical abuse, and confiscated her passport, preventing her from returning to India. In July 2017, Priya attempted to sedate Mahdi with ketamine to retrieve her documents, but the dosage led to his death. His body was later found dismembered in a water tank, leading to her arrest and conviction in 2018.
A Sana’a court sentenced Priya to death in 2020, and Yemen’s Supreme Judicial Council upheld the verdict in November 2023, though it allowed for a possible blood money settlement. Priya’s trial has been criticized for lacking fairness, as it was conducted entirely in Arabic without an interpreter or adequate legal representation.
Ongoing Efforts and Challenges
Priya’s mother, Prema Kumari, has been in Yemen since April 2024, working with the Save Nimisha Priya International Action Council to negotiate with Mahdi’s family. The council, comprising activists, lawyers, and expatriates, has raised funds and coordinated efforts to secure her release. However, challenges persist due to the ongoing Yemeni civil war and the lack of formal diplomatic relations between India and the Houthi administration controlling Sana’a.
The Indian Supreme Court heard a plea from the council on July 14, 2025, urging diplomatic intervention. The Centre informed the court that its ability to intervene is limited due to the complex geopolitical situation in Yemen, with Attorney General R. Venkataramani stating:
“A blood money settlement remains the only viable option at this stage.”
The court expressed concern, noting it would be “sad” if Priya lost her life, and scheduled another hearing for July 18, 2025, to review progress.
Support from Kerala and International Community
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on July 13, 2025, calling Priya’s case “deserving sympathy” and urging immediate intervention. Human rights organizations, including Amnesty International, have criticized the death sentence and called for a moratorium on executions in Yemen. Iran has also expressed willingness to assist, with a senior official stating in February 2025 that it is engaging with Yemeni authorities on Priya’s behalf.
What Lies Ahead
While the postponement has provided temporary relief, Priya’s fate hinges on whether Mahdi’s family will accept a blood money settlement. Supreme Court lawyer Subhash Chandran remains cautiously optimistic, noting that the victim’s brother’s willingness to engage in talks marks a significant step. However, with the family’s firm stance on Qisas, the path to securing a pardon remains uncertain.
The Indian government continues to explore informal channels and diplomatic avenues to resolve the case, with the next Supreme Court hearing on July 18 expected to provide further clarity. For the latest updates, follow reputable news sources or visit the Ministry of External Affairs website for official statements. The Save Nimisha Priya International Action Council continues to appeal for public support and donations to aid their efforts.
