After a special court in Qatar commuted the death sentence of eight Indian ex-Navy personnel, the Ministry of External Affairs stated on Friday that the 'interests of Indians and their families is their foremost concern'. In response to queries about the future course of action in the case, the MEA mentioned that it would await the detailed judgment before making any additional comments. However, it noted that discussions on the next steps would take place with the legal team and family members.
During a press conference on Friday, MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said, "The sentences have been reduced but I don't have any additional information to share until we see the detailed judgment. We would urge you again not to engage in speculation. The interests of Indians and their family members are our foremost concern. We will also of course be discussing the next possible steps with the legal team and the family members."
On Thursday, a Court of Appeal of Qatar commuted the death sentence of the navy veterans, providing respite to the families of the arrested.
In August 2022, eight Indian nationals employed by Al Dahra Global Technologies in Doha were arrested on suspicion of espionage. Although the specific charges were not disclosed by Qatari authorities, they were later sentenced to death in October by the Court of First Instance. Al Dahra Global Technologies, a private company offering training and services to Qatar's military and security agencies, was at the centre of the controversy. Last month, India appealed the death sentence through the Qatari Court of Appeal.
The eight former Indian Navy personnel were identified as Captain Navtej Singh Gill, Captain Saurabh Vasisht, Commander Purenendu Tiwari, Commander Sanjeev Gupta, Captain Birendra Kumar Verma, Commander Sugunakar Pakala, Commander Amit Nagpal, and Sailor Rajesh.