Behind the scenes, how Nimisha Priya’s execution was postponed and what happens next
New Delhi/Sana’a, July 15, 2025 — Indian nurse Nimisha Priya, sentenced to death in Yemen, has received a temporary reprieve. This unexpected delay follows behind-the-scenes diplomacy, legal appeals, and strong public support.
A Quick Recap of the Case
Nimisha Priya, a nurse from Kerala, was convicted in 2020 for the murder of her Yemeni business partner, Khalid Bin Abdullah Al Azani. She admitted to injecting him with sedatives, reportedly to retrieve her passport and escape an abusive relationship. Al Azani died from an overdose. Yemeni courts sentenced her to death under Sharia law.
What Caused the Delay?
The execution, expected in July 2025, didn’t happen as scheduled. Indian officials opened multiple communication channels with Yemen’s Houthi-led government. Diplomats reached out to leaders through trusted intermediaries in the Gulf region. These talks urged Yemen to consider a stay of execution.
Sources in India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed quiet but persistent diplomacy. Religious leaders, community groups, and human rights lawyers also supported the appeal. Yemen’s internal conflicts made the process more complex, but the pressure paid off.
Blood Money Talks Offer Hope
Yemeni law allows the victim’s family to forgive the convict in exchange for diyah (blood money). The “Save Nimisha” campaign, launched in India and abroad, raised about ₹1.8 crore (roughly $215,000). The campaign offered this amount to Al Azani’s family.
Initially, the family refused the offer. But recent efforts seem to have shifted their stance. A representative from the campaign stated, “We’re hopeful. The family has begun responding positively to our messages.”
Although the family hasn’t agreed in writing yet, the possibility of a pardon now exists.
Legal Efforts in Two Countries
The Delhi High Court recently directed India’s government to act urgently. Following the order, India stepped up efforts in Yemen. Meanwhile, Nimisha’s lawyer in Sanaa filed for a stay, citing the ongoing talks with Al Azani’s family. Yemeni authorities accepted the plea and paused the execution.
Political and Public Pressure Mounts
Public support has grown over the past few months. Candlelight vigils were held in Kerala, Delhi, and even abroad. Politicians across party lines joined the call for action.
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan urged the central government to intervene. Congress MP Shashi Tharoor and BJP leaders also voiced support. Kerala’s Health Minister Veena George met with Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar to press for urgent help.
What Lies Ahead?
Although Nimisha’s life was spared for now, the final outcome remains uncertain.
- Ongoing Diyah Talks: The victim’s family holds the key. If they agree to accept the blood money, the court can officially issue a pardon.
- Diplomatic Engagement: India may continue involving nations like Oman or Qatar to keep communication channels open with Yemen.
- Global Advocacy: Activists plan to reach out to global bodies, including the UN Human Rights Council and Amnesty International.
- Time Pressure: Yemen hasn’t announced a new execution date, but legal experts believe the delay may only last a few weeks.
Nimisha Priya remains in prison, but a path to freedom may still be possible. Her supporters hope that compassion and diplomacy can save her life before time runs out.
