Wed Jan 01 05:33:11 UTC 2025: ## Indian Nurse Sentenced to Death in Yemen; India Pledges Support

**NEW DELHI** – Nimisha Priya, a Kerala nurse, has been sentenced to death in Yemen for the alleged murder of a Yemeni man in 2017, prompting the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to pledge its full support in securing her release.

Priya, who was arrested in 2017 while attempting to leave the country, was convicted in 2020. Her appeal was rejected by Yemen’s supreme judicial council in November 2023. The MEA confirmed its awareness of the sentencing and stated that it is providing all possible assistance to Priya and her family.

According to reports, Priya’s death sentence could be commuted if her family pays “blood money” or “diyya” – a monetary compensation to the victim’s family under Sharia law. Negotiations have begun, with an initial payment of $40,000 already made. However, an additional $400,000 is reportedly needed to secure her release. The “Save Nimisha Priya International Action Council” has been formed to raise the necessary funds.

A Supreme Court lawyer representing Priya’s family expressed hope that Indian government intervention will facilitate negotiations with the victim’s family and potentially delay the execution. The lawyer emphasized the Indian government’s role in mediating discussions and securing the necessary pardon.

Priya’s case is complicated by the ongoing civil war in Yemen and the difficulties in navigating the Houthi-controlled areas. She moved to Yemen in 2008 and had a complex relationship with the victim, who initially assisted her but later allegedly exploited her and abused her. The alleged abuse led to the events that resulted in his death. The details surrounding the circumstances of the victim’s death remain contentious.

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