Execution of Indian woman in UAE sparks legal concerns

In a tragic development, the Indian Foreign Ministry has informed the Delhi High Court of the execution of Shahzadi Khan, an Indian woman from Uttar Pradesh. She was facing a death sentence in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for the alleged murder of a four-month-old child in Abu Dhabi. The execution took place on February 15, 2025, in line with UAE laws.

The news came to light after Shahzadi's father, Shabbir Khan, approached the court seeking information about his daughter's legal status and wellbeing. Additional Solicitor General Chetan Sharma noted that the Indian embassy received official confirmation of the execution on February 28.

Shahzadi Khan's Backstory

Shahzadi, 33, had been imprisoned in Abu Dhabi's Al Wathba jail. Her case stemmed from the death of an infant under her care, following routine vaccinations. Her employment in Abu Dhabi began in December 2021 to care for the child born to her employer in August 2022.

The case took a serious turn after a video surfaced, allegedly showing Shahzadi confessing to the homicide in December 2023. However, her father’s plea claimed the confession was a result of torture and duress by the employer.

There were further complications: the infant's parents refused a postmortem and signed a waiver on further investigations. Despite legal counsel provided by the Indian Embassy, allegations arose of inadequate representation and coerced confessions.

Legal Proceedings and Outcome

Shahzadi’s appeal in September 2023 was dismissed, with the death penalty upheld in February 2024. A mercy petition filed by her father in May 2024 went unanswered as her execution date approached. A brief last conversation between Shahzadi and her father hinted at her imminent execution, prompting him to seek urgent diplomatic intervention.

Assistance Post-Execution

The Foreign Ministry stated that all possible assistance is being extended, with arrangements for Shahzadi's cremation set for March 5, 2025.

The high court acknowledged the Ministry’s submissions and labeled the case a "sad and unfortunate" incident before disposing of the plea.

This case has highlighted complex issues surrounding legal representation, embassy support, and the treatment of foreign nationals under foreign judicial systems.