The Supreme Court of India was informed on Thursday that there is no immediate threat to the life of Nimisha Priya, a 38-year-old nurse from Palakkad, Kerala, who is on death row in Yemen for the 2017 murder of her Yemeni business partner, Talal Abdo Mahdi. The court, presided over by Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta, scheduled the next hearing for eight weeks, allowing time for ongoing diplomatic negotiations to secure her release.
Priya, convicted in 2017 and sentenced to death in 2020, had her final appeal rejected by Yemen’s Supreme Judicial Council in 2023. She is currently imprisoned in a jail in Sana’a, Yemen’s capital, under the control of the Houthi-led government. The case has drawn significant attention in India, with the Save Nimisha Priya International Action Council, a petitioner organization, advocating for her release through legal and diplomatic efforts.
The counsel for the petitioner organization informed the court that negotiations are underway, expressing hope that a resolution could be reached within weeks. The organization has been pushing for a diplomatic solution, including the possibility of paying “blood money” (diya) to the victim’s family, a practice permitted under Yemen’s Sharia law that could lead to Priya’s pardon. The victim’s family has reportedly shown openness to this option, though no final agreement has been confirmed.
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In a significant development, Priya’s execution, originally scheduled for July 16, 2025, was stayed, providing a window for further negotiations. The Indian government has been actively involved, with the Ministry of External Affairs stating on July 17 that it is engaging with Yemeni authorities and friendly nations to find a “mutually agreeable solution.” The ministry emphasized its commitment to exploring all possible avenues to ensure Priya’s safety.
Priya’s mother, Prema Kumari, has been in Yemen since earlier this year, meeting with the victim’s family to negotiate a potential settlement. Her travel was facilitated after the Delhi High Court directed the Indian government to grant her permission. The petitioner’s counsel also requested that the Centre appoint a delegation to visit Yemen and assist in these discussions, a suggestion the Supreme Court advised be submitted as a formal representation to the government.
According to Yemeni court documents, Priya was found guilty of drugging and murdering Mahdi, her business partner, in July 2017. The case has raised complex questions about justice, diplomacy, and cultural differences in legal systems, as India navigates the challenges of securing clemency in a conflict-ridden country.
The Supreme Court’s decision to adjourn the case reflects cautious optimism, with the petitioner’s counsel noting they would approach the court again if any urgent developments arise. For now, Priya’s fate remains uncertain as her family, legal team, and the Indian government work tirelessly to secure her freedom.
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