The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has assured full support to explore options in the case of Nimisha Priya, a Kerala nurse sentenced to death in Yemen. This statement follows Yemen President Rashad Muhammed al-Alimi’s approval of the death penalty for Priya, accused of murdering Yemeni national Talal Abdo Mehdi in 2017.
“We are aware of the sentencing of Ms. Nimisha Priya in Yemen. We understand that her family is exploring relevant options. The government is extending all possible help in the matter,” MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said in response to media queries.
Options for Clemency
Under Yemeni law, Priya’s fate hinges on the victim’s family and their tribal leader. They may pardon her and accept “blood money,” a traditional compensation, as an alternative to the death penalty. The family’s forgiveness remains a critical factor in determining her release.
Background of the Case
Nimisha Priya, a trained nurse, moved to Yemen for work and later partnered with Talal Abdo Mehdi to establish a clinic in Sana’a in 2015. Yemeni law prohibits foreigners from owning businesses, prompting her to rely on Mehdi for legal formalities.
During a visit to India, Mehdi allegedly manipulated a wedding photograph of Priya to falsely claim marriage, seizing control of the clinic and her earnings. According to Priya’s family, he confiscated her passport, subjected her to harassment, and threatened her at gunpoint. Unable to escape his grip, Priya filed a police complaint, but she was jailed instead, worsening her plight.
In 2017, Priya reportedly attempted to sedate Mehdi to retrieve her passport, but the stronger sedative led to his death from an overdose.
Efforts for Release
Priya’s family and supporters have been lobbying for her release. The Indian government has expressed readiness to assist within the framework of Yemeni law. Advocacy groups are also working to gather support for clemency and raise funds for potential compensation to Mehdi’s family.
The Road Ahead
The case has sparked widespread debate over the plight of Indian workers abroad, especially women facing exploitation in conflict zones. As efforts to secure Priya’s release continue, her case highlights the challenges of navigating foreign legal systems and the urgent need for diplomatic intervention in such cases.