The family of Talal Abdo Mahdi, allegedly murdered by Nimisha Priya, has rejected the offer of blood money (Diyah) from the Kerala nurse’s family and is demanding the enforcement of ‘God’s law’ (Qisas) – retaliation in kind. Talal’s brother, Abdel Fateh Mahdi, speaking to BBC Arabic, dismissed claims of abuse, exploitation, or passport confiscation made by Nimisha Priya, stating these were never presented in court. He emphasized that the murder, dismemberment, and concealment of Talal’s body were unforgivable. The family’s stance is unwavering, seeking no compromise. Under Yemeni Sharia law, the family can choose between execution or accepting blood money, but they have chosen the former. Nimisha Priya, who moved to Yemen in 2008 and opened a clinic, was sentenced to death in 2020 for the murder. The execution, previously scheduled for July 16, has been postponed. The case has garnered international attention, with negotiations involving the Indian government and religious leaders.
