Nimisha Priya’s Execution Postponed

In a big relief to Kerala nurse Nimisha Priya, the Yemeni authorities postponed her execution, which was actually scheduled for July 16. The postponement comes following concerted efforts by the Government of India. Sources said that the postponement gives additional time for the 37-year-old nurse’s family to negotiate a mutually agreeable solution with the Yemen man’s family, even as diplomatic efforts by Indian officials are ongoing.

The Indian officials maintained regular communication with Yemeni jail authorities and the prosecutor’s office while navigating the sensitivities of the situation to secure this relief. Sources said that the GOI which has been rendering all possible help since the beginning of the case has made concerted efforts in recent days to seek more time for Priya’s family to reach a mutually agreeable solution with the other party.

The Kerala nurse was sentenced to be executed by a trial court in Yemen which convicted her of killing a Yemeni national, a decision that the country’s Supreme Judicial Council upheld in November 2023. It may be recalled that on Monday, while giving the Union Government’s submission on the case in the Supreme Court, the Attorney General of India stated that the Indian government is making every possible effort to help Priya. He told the Court that Indian authorities are holding talks with Yemeni authorities, including the public prosecutor handling Priya’s case, to secure a suspension of the execution order to enable negotiations.

At the same time, he said that the Indian government’s ability to intervene is limited, calling it a very complex issue. Hearing the Central government’s submission, Justice Sandeep Mehta expressed deep concern and said it would be very sad if she (Priya) were to lose her life. The court will continue to hear the case on July 18.