India’s Grand Mufti Intervenes to Postpone Execution of Nurse Nimisha Priya in Yemen
India’s Grand Mufti Sheikh Kanthapuram A.P. Aboobacker Musliyar has played a key role in securing a temporary postponement of the execution of Kerala nurse Nimisha Priya in Yemen. Priya, convicted of murdering a Yemeni national, faced the death penalty, but discussions are now underway that may open a path to clemency through Islamic law.
Speaking to the media, Kanthapuram explained that under Islamic law (Sharia), the family of the victim has the right to pardon the murderer, which could potentially spare Priya’s life. “Islam has another law. If the murderer is sentenced to death, the family of the victim has the right to pardon,” he stated. Although he has not personally contacted the victim’s family, the Grand Mufti reached out to influential Islamic scholars in Yemen, urging them to mediate and open dialogue with the family.
“From a long distance, I contacted the responsible scholars in Yemen. I made them understand the issues. Islam is a religion that places a lot of importance on humanity,” he told news agency ANI. According to him, the Yemeni scholars responded positively, held discussions, and have now officially communicated that the execution date has been postponed. This development provides a critical window for continuing talks with the victim’s family.
Kanthapuram also emphasized that he has kept Indian authorities informed about the process. “I have also informed the Central government about the discussions and the process. I have also sent a letter to the Prime Minister’s Office,” he said.
The case of Nimisha Priya has drawn widespread attention and sparked campaigns in India calling for her release or repatriation. The Grand Mufti’s involvement is seen as a significant religious and diplomatic intervention that may support ongoing legal and humanitarian efforts to save Priya’s life.
With the execution temporarily halted, hopes are rising that negotiations rooted in Islamic principles of forgiveness and compassion may ultimately lead to a pardon and bring Priya back home.
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