Shahzadi Khan, an Indian domestic worker, was executed in Abu Dhabi after being convicted of killing an infant. Her family claims she was innocent and assert that she did not receive adequate legal representation during her trial. Following the child’s death, Khan was arrested, and her execution took place despite her family’s efforts to appeal for justice.
An Indian domestic worker named Shahzadi Khan was executed in Abu Dhabi after being convicted of murdering her employer’s infant. Despite her family’s claims of her innocence and allegations of inadequate legal representation, the Indian government confirmed her execution last month. Khan was arrested following the death of the four-month-old child, which her family believes was due to an incorrect vaccination, rather than criminal intent.
Khan, who began working in Abu Dhabi in 2021, maintained regular communication with her family until her arrest in December 2022. Her father stated that the last time he spoke with her was on February 13, when she expressed fear for her life, indicating it might be her final communication. After losing contact, her family petitioned the Delhi High Court for information, leading to the confirmation of her execution on February 15.
The allegations of insufficient legal support arising during her trial have been vehemently voiced by her family, particularly by her father, who has sought justice for his daughter. According to him, he was unable to afford legal representation in Abu Dhabi, stating, “She didn’t get justice. I have tried everywhere, running around since last year. But I didn’t have money to go there [Abu Dhabi] to hire a lawyer.”
In a statement released to BBC Hindi following her conviction, her employer insisted on Khan’s culpability, claiming, “Shahzadi brutally and intentionally killed my son which is already proven by the United Arab Emirates authorities in the light of all the evidence.” Recent reports indicate that there are currently 54 Indians on death row internationally, including 29 residing in the UAE.
Shahzadi Khan’s execution in Abu Dhabi has sparked controversy, highlighting concerns over legal representation for foreign nationals. Her family strongly contests her conviction, alleging that the child’s death resulted from a medical error rather than foul play. This case raises significant questions regarding judicial processes and protective measures for expatriates in foreign jurisdictions. The Indian government’s acknowledgment of multiple nationals on death row further complicates the advocacy for justice in such cases.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
