New Delhi, March 3, 2025 – An Indian national, Shahzadi, who was convicted of murdering an infant in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), has been executed following the decision of the UAE’s highest court. The Court of Cassation upheld the death sentence, and the UAE authorities informed the Indian Embassy on February 28, 2025, that the sentence had been carried out in accordance with local laws.
Shahzadi had been provided with legal assistance by the Indian government throughout her trial and appeals process. The Indian Embassy in the UAE facilitated legal representation and submitted multiple mercy petitions and pardon requests to the UAE government in an effort to seek clemency. However, these appeals were ultimately unsuccessful.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), through its XP Division, confirmed that Shahzadi’s family has been informed of the execution. The ministry expressed its condolences to the family while reiterating its respect for the legal framework of the UAE.
The case has drawn attention to the stringent legal system in the UAE, where capital punishment is enforced for severe crimes, including murder. While India has historically intervened in cases involving its nationals abroad, clemency decisions remain at the discretion of the host country’s judicial system.
The Indian government continues to engage with foreign governments on legal and humanitarian grounds, ensuring that due process is followed and that Indian nationals receive fair representation in foreign legal proceedings.
