Evangelist and Global Peace Initiative founder Dr. KA Paul on Tuesday night claimed that the death sentence of Indian nurse Nimisha Priya in Yemen has been cancelled, following sustained diplomatic and humanitarian efforts by leaders from both India and Yemen.
In a video message from Sanaa, Dr. Paul expressed gratitude to Yemeni authorities and Indian leaders for what he called “round-the-clock efforts” over the past ten days. “By God’s grace, Nimisha Priya’s death sentence is cancelled. She will be released and taken to India safely,” he said, thanking Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Indian diplomats for their active support.
Paul also mentioned that logistical arrangements for her safe repatriation from Sanaa to a third country—such as Oman, Jeddah, Egypt, Iran, or Turkiye—are being coordinated in collaboration with the Indian government.
The 37-year-old nurse from Kerala was sentenced to death by a Yemeni court after being convicted of murdering a Yemeni national. Her execution was initially scheduled for July 16 but was postponed after legal and diplomatic interventions.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) last week confirmed it had appointed a lawyer to support Priya’s family in pursuing clemency options under Sharia law. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated, “This is a sensitive matter. The government has provided legal help, ensured regular consular access, and is actively engaging with local authorities to resolve the issue.”
Religious and humanitarian appeals also played a significant role. Kerala’s Grand Mufti Sheikh Abubakr Ahmad Kanthapuram revealed he had urged Yemeni Islamic scholars to consider clemency, invoking the Sharia practice of accepting Diya (blood money) in lieu of execution. He emphasized the humanitarian aspect of his appeal, regardless of Priya’s religion.
“I requested that they accept Diyaat, as the family is ready to provide it. Her execution has now been postponed, allowing time for more dialogue,” the Grand Mufti said, noting that the delay followed his outreach and diplomatic efforts from India.
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan also welcomed the cancellation, crediting the efforts of religious leaders and the Action Council working for Priya’s release.
While official confirmation from Yemeni judicial authorities is awaited, KA Paul’s statement has sparked hope that Nimisha Priya could soon return home after years of legal struggle and global advocacy.