'Death penalty likely any moment after Eid, crucial week for Nimisha Priya'

NEW DELHI: Nimisha Priya Action Council member Samuel responded to receiving a voice message purportedly from the Malayali nurse. However, Samuel told a media outlet that the courts in Yemen are currently on holiday and that he could not confirm whether Nimisha Priya's message was true. Samuel spoke to his lawyer about the matter.

He responded that the death penalty could be carried out at any moment after Eid and that the next week would be crucial. Currently, Nimishapriya's mother is staying at Samuel's house in Yemen.

“I got a call about half an hour ago. A woman advocate was on the line, and she wanted to talk to me. She asked me how the talks were progressing to ensure clemency for the Malayali nurse. She then told me some concerning news. The death sentence could happen any time after the Eid holidays. She said the situation was crucial,” said Samuel.

The crime of which Nimisha Priya was accused took place in Houthi-controlled northern Yemen. Iranian officials had been trying to negotiate with the family of Talal Abdo Mahdi, who was killed by Nimisha while trying to escape from his torture.

Nimisha Priya's mother, Premakumari, had gone to Yemen to meet Talal's family and apologize. She held talks with Talal's family and the tribal leaders. However, the talks turned out to be futile as Talal’s family reiterated their old stance. Nimisha Priya is the wife of Thodupuzha native Tommy Thomas.