Kerala
Thiruvananthapuram, July 14, 2025 – With Nimisha Priya’s execution in Yemen looming just days away, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has escalated his appeal, writing formally to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to intercede “urgently” on humanitarian grounds. This plea follows mounting public pressure and shifting political dynamics, as the clock ticks toward the scheduled date of July 16, 2025.
⏳ The Clock Is Ticking
Nimisha Priya, a 37-year-old nurse from Kollengode in Palakkad district, was sentenced to death by a Yemeni court in 2018 for the alleged murder of her business partner, Talal Abdo Mahdi. The conviction, later upheld by Yemen’s Supreme Judicial Council in November 2023, stems from an incident in 2017—when Nimisha, allegedly desperate to escape chronic abuse and the illegal retention of her passport, administered a sedative that proved fatal . Her execution is now slated for July 16, 2025, triggering frantic diplomatic efforts.
CM’s Plea to the PM
On July 13, CM Vijayan sealed his appeal with an official letter dated the same day, addressed to PM Modi. He characterized Nimisha’s case as “deserving sympathy” and requested the Centre to leverage all possible diplomatic channels to secure her release or at least a commutation .
A related post on X (formerly Twitter) reads:
“Wrote to Hon’ble PM Shri @narendramodi Ji urging urgent intervention to secure the release of Nimisha Priya, who remains imprisoned in Yemen…”
Alongside the CM’s letter, a petition by the Save Nimisha Priya Action Council is set to be heard by India’s Supreme Court on July 14, asking the Centre to explore all viable diplomatic options, including the concept of “blood money” (diya) under Sharia law.
Diplomatic Limits & Legal Hurdles
While CM Vijayan and multiple MPs across party lines—including K Radhakrishnan (CPI‑M), Mehbooba Mufti, and KC Venugopal—have demanded swift government action , the Centre has notified the Supreme Court that its diplomatic hands are tied. Attorney General R. Venkataramani, appearing in court on July 14, pointed out India’s lack of formal diplomatic ties with Yemen and stressed that “blood‑money” negotiations are personal and not state‑executed .
The AG added there’s little more government can offer beyond conferring with authorities quietly and facilitating private negotiations. Amid dire warnings that public exposure could complicate matters further, the Court expressed concern but acknowledged the limits of its jurisdiction
Ground Support & Private Diplomatic Moves
Meanwhile, Nimisha’s husband Tomy Thomas, bolstered by public sentiment and support from political leaders, met the Kerala Governor. He returned hopeful, citing assurances that the Governor is actively communicating with the Centre.
On the ground in Yemen, the Save Nimisha Priya International Action Council—backed by Kerala-based social activists—is actively negotiating with the victim’s family. Their focus is to finalize a “diya” arrangement. Religious leaders, including Kanthapuram AP Aboobacker Musliyar, are lending their influence to these efforts
As of June 2024, approximately US $40,000 had been raised toward such a settlement. Half was reportedly transferred to the Indian Embassy in Sanaa . Whether this will appease the victim’s family and halt the execution remains unclear.
Humanitarian Fallout & Public Response
Nimisha’s plight has invoked robust reactions across India—especially Kerala—where political leaders, religious organizations, and citizens have called for clemency. Her husband continues to speak of hope, praising the MEA’s efforts and urging optimism.
Adding to the diplomatic urgency, cases like Mehbooba Mufti’s call for nationwide fundraising among women highlight the emotional solidarity building around Nimisha’s cause.
What Happens Next
- July 14: The Supreme Court will decide if the Centre should be directed to initiate stronger diplomatic outreach.
- July 16: The scheduled execution date looms—unless there is an eleventh-hour stay, pardon, or blood‑money deal.
- Diplomatic & legal front: Quiet negotiations continue between activists, religious mediators, India’s mission, and Yemeni authorities.
Why This Case Matters
Nimisha Priya’s situation epitomizes the dilemma India faces when its citizens are detained under harsh legal systems abroad. The case tests India’s diplomatic capacity, especially toward nations with which formal ties are minimal. It also raises profound questions about the extent to which India can protect citizens abroad—particularly those in crisis situations beyond traditional embassy support.
As CM Vijayan’s letter reaches the Prime Minister’s desk, expectations rise that India may employ every possible channel to prevent what could be a milestone case of executing an Indian citizen abroad.
Final Take
Kerala CM’s intervention is both symbolic and strategic—reflecting India’s democratic values and commitment to citizens dwelling overseas. Whether it turns the tide in Nimisha’s perilous fight for life remains to be seen. With the Supreme Court hearing pending and execution set for July 16, all eyes now turn to the Prime Minister’s Office and the confidential corridors of diplomacy.
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