Shahzadi Khan Executed in UAE: Controversy Erupts

The execution of Shahzadi Khan, an Indian woman convicted of killing an infant in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), has ignited a wave of grief and controversy. The 33-year-old from Uttarakhand was executed on February 15, 2025, in Abu Dhabi, despite her family’s persistent claims of innocence. This incident has raised serious questions about the circumstances surrounding her case, the legal proceedings, and the extent of diplomatic efforts.  

Here’s a breakdown of the key elements of this tragic story:

The Background:

• Shahzadi Khan traveled to Abu Dhabi in 2021, reportedly seeking better employment opportunities and medical treatment for burn injuries sustained earlier in her life.  
• Her family alleges that she was lured under false pretenses and subsequently trafficked into forced labor.
• She ended up working for an Indian couple, who later accused her of causing the death of their infant child in 2022.

The Legal Proceedings:

• Khan was sentenced to death in July 2023.  
• Throughout the legal process, she and her family maintained her innocence, asserting that the infant’s death was linked to a vaccination administered earlier that day.  
• Her family has also stated that she was forced to sign a confession.
• The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has stated that they gave consular access, and appointed a lawyer to defend her.  
• Her family however, have stated that they felt that the legal council pressured her into a confession.  

The Execution and Aftermath:

• The execution took place on February 15, 2025.  
• The revelation of her execution came to light during a Delhi High Court hearing, following a petition filed by her father, Shabbir Khan, who sought information about her legal status.  
• The MEA informed the court that all possible diplomatic efforts were made to save Khan.
• The Indian government has stated that it will facilitate the travel of Khan’s family to Abu Dhabi for her last rites.
• There has been much controversy surrounding the time difference between the execution, and the informing of the Indian government.

Key Points of Contention:

• Claims of Innocence: Khan’s family vehemently denies the allegations against her, raising concerns about the fairness of the trial and the circumstances surrounding the infant’s death.  
• Coerced Confession: allegations that the confession was coerced, casts serious doubt on the validity of the conviction.
• Diplomatic Efforts: Questions have been raised about the effectiveness of the Indian government’s diplomatic efforts to intervene in the case.
• Transparency: The delay in informing the family and the Indian government about the execution has drawn criticism.

Broader Implications:

• This case highlights the vulnerabilities faced by migrant workers in foreign countries, particularly those in domestic service.
• It underscores the importance of ensuring fair legal processes and adequate consular assistance for Indian citizens facing legal challenges abroad.
• It also raises questions about the use of the death penalty.

The execution of Shahzadi Khan has left her family devastated and has sparked a national debate about justice, human rights, and the protection of Indian citizens abroad. As the situation develops, further information may come to light