After Blood Money Rejection, Nimisha Priya Still Has 5 Possible Ways To Avoid Execution
India is offering Nimisha Priya free legal aid, consular access, and visa support, while sending experts to Yemen and applying diplomatic pressure via Iran and Gulf allies
In a major setback for Indian nurse Nimisha Priya, the family of Yemeni murder victim Talal Abdo Mahdi has refused to accept blood money, demanding the death penalty instead.
Nimisha Priya's case dates back to 2017 and has since progressed through the local court and Yemen's Supreme Court, both of which upheld her death sentence. Originally scheduled to be hanged on July 16, the execution was postponed, and the next hearing is set for August 14. Efforts to secure blood money compensation continue, but with limited alternatives available, the situation remains dire.
What Are Nimisha Priya's Options?
Under Yemeni Sharia law, one prominent way to avert the death penalty is through blood money. However, with the victim's family's refusal, Nimisha Priya is now exploring other options:
What The Indian Government Is Doing
The Indian Ministry of External Affairs and the Indian Embassy are providing Nimisha Priya with legal assistance, visa support, and consular visits at no cost. A team, including legal experts and Sharia scholars, is being sent to Yemen. Additionally, diplomatic pressure is being applied through friendly countries in Iran and the Gulf.
How Much Influence Does India Have On The Houthis?
The Indian government's influence on the Houthi rebels is limited and indirect, but certain strategic and diplomatic channels still offer scope for dialogue or pressure. The Houthis, a Shia Zaydi rebel group, control large parts of northern and western Yemen and function as the de facto government in those areas. They are widely believed to be backed by Iran.
Can Iran Help?
Given Iran's strong influence over the Houthi rebels, it's possible that India could leverage its cordial ties with Tehran to open a diplomatic channel and seek a resolution. However, it remains uncertain whether Iran views this as a priority issue and would be willing to intervene on India's behalf.
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