Indian Woman Executed in UAE for Child’s Murder: Government Confirms

Fast Summary

• Individual Involved: Shahzadi Khan, a resident of Banda district in Uttar Pradesh, traveled to Abu Dhabi on a tourist visa on December 19, 2022.
• Case Details: She was arrested by abu Dhabi police on February 10, 2023. On July 31, she was sentenced to death for allegedly murdering her employer’s four-month-old child. She was lodged in the Al Wathba jail.
• Execution and Follow-up: Shahzadi Khan was executed on February 15, as informed by India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) through Additional Solicitor General (ASG) Chetan Sharma during Delhi High Court proceedings. Her cremation is scheduled for March 5.
• Family Concerns: Her father,Shabbir Khan,filed repeated pleas with MEA for updates about his daughter’s situation amidst “profound uncertainty.” The family claims she faced inadequate legal representation and pressure to confess.
• Last Dialog: On February 14, she reportedly called her family from prison saying this would be her last call and that she’d be executed within days.

indian Opinion Analysis

The execution of Shahzadi Khan highlights several critical aspects regarding Indian citizens facing legal challenges abroad and diplomatic efforts during such cases. While MEA claims it provided assistance and ensured communication between the Embassy officials and the aggrieved family for post-execution arrangements like attending the last rites in Abu Dhabi-a significant logistical support-the case raises questions about legal aid provided during foreign trials. Allegations suggesting inadequate representation or coercion into confession could prompt reflection among policymakers about bolstering consular support systems for Indians accused abroad.

The incident underscores how procedural openness within overseas judicial systems influences perceptions of fairness when an Indian citizen faces capital punishment abroad. It may also ignite discussions around advocacy collaborations to ensure timely intervention before irreversible outcomes like executions occur.

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