Why Yemen Sentenced Nimisha Priya to Death: Full Story
Nimisha Priya, a nurse from Kerala, has been on death row in Yemen since 2018 for the murder of a Yemeni man, Talal Abdo Mahdi. She was accused of killing Mahdi in 2017 after he allegedly confiscated her passport. According to reports, Priya injected Mahdi with a sedative to temporarily incapacitate him and collect her passport. Tragically, the dose proved fatal, resulting in his death.
The Yemeni court sentenced her to death, and after exhausting her appeals, Yemen’s President Rashad al-Alimi recently approved her execution. The execution is expected within a month, leaving little time for further intervention.
India’s Response to the Situation
The Indian government has expressed concern over Priya’s sentencing. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated that all possible measures are being explored to assist her. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized that the government is closely monitoring the case and providing support to her family.
Family's Struggle for Justice
Priya’s family, especially her mother, Prema Kumari, has been tirelessly fighting to save her. In an effort to negotiate a settlement, Kumari travelled to Yemen last year. She aimed to secure the victim’s family’s forgiveness through the traditional practice of paying “blood money,” which could potentially reduce Priya’s sentence.
Challenges in Negotiating Blood Money
Negotiations to secure forgiveness have faced several obstacles. The lawyer representing Priya, Abdullah Ameer, initially demanded a pre-negotiation fee of $20,000, which later doubled to $40,000. Although the Indian Embassy had already contributed $19,871, disagreements over payment terms caused delays.
Additionally, the Save Nimisha Priya International Action Council raised some funds through crowdfunding. However, disputes about the transparency of fund utilization further complicated the process.
Hope Amidst Challenges
The situation remains dire, but efforts to save Priya continue. Activists, legal teams, and Priya’s family are working tirelessly to find a resolution. India is also exploring diplomatic channels to support her case. However, with the execution looming, time is of the essence.
Conclusion
Nimisha Priya’s case underscores the complex intersection of law, culture, and international diplomacy. While her family and supporters continue their efforts, the outcome depends on swift action and successful negotiations. The story serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by Indians working abroad and the importance of timely legal and diplomatic intervention.
Source: Inputs from various media Sources
I’m a pharmacist with a strong background in health sciences. I hold a BSc from Delhi University and a pharmacy degree from PDM University. I write articles and daily health news while interviewing doctors to bring you the latest insights. In my free time, you’ll find me at the gym or lost in a sci-fi novel.
