Thu Jul 17 12:08:01 UTC 2025: **News Article:**
**Yemeni Family Demands ‘Qisas’ for Kerala Nurse Convicted of Murder, Rejecting Pardon**
Sanaa, Yemen – The family of Talal Abdo Mehdi, murdered by Kerala nurse Nimisha Priya, is demanding “Qisas,” or “God’s law” – retributive justice – and has rejected all attempts at a pardon or financial compensation. Ms. Priya was sentenced to death in Yemen for the 2017 murder of Mr. Mehdi after she attempted to drug him to retrieve her passport, which he had allegedly confiscated following accusations of harassment and theft.
Ms. Priya’s scheduled execution was temporarily stayed due to diplomatic pressure, but a new execution date has yet to be set. The Indian government and social activists are working to persuade Mr. Mehdi’s family to grant a pardon or commute her sentence, however, Abdelfattah Mehdi, the victim’s brother, stated firmly that they will not accept any “blood money” and will pursue justice as prescribed by Islamic law.
“Qisas” is a principle of Islamic jurisprudence that allows victims of intentional crimes to seek reciprocal justice, often described as “an eye for an eye.” In cases of murder, it can mean a life for a life, which the family is demanding in this case.
While the Indian government and private individuals are attempting to mediate and negotiate with the family, Abdelfattah Mehdi has reiterated his family’s unwavering demand for “Qisas.” The Indian government has acknowledged the limitations of its intervention.
Nimisha Priya’s case has drawn international attention, highlighting the complexities of navigating legal systems based on Sharia law. While Yemen has a high execution rate, the temporary postponement of her execution offers a glimmer of hope, signaling that the Yemeni government is considering external pressures.
First Piper 