Qatar Accepts Ex-Indian Navy Men"s Appeal Against Death Sentence

In a glimmer of hope for eight former Indian Navy personnel facing the death penalty in Qatar, the Qatari court has accepted the appeals filed against their sentences. These appeals, lodged in their individual capacities, received support from the Indian government. The former Navy personnel, employed by the private company Al Dahra, were arrested in August last year on charges of espionage.

Previously, efforts by the Indian government to secure the release of these individuals had been reported. The Court of First Instance in Qatar had handed down death sentences to the eight Indians on October 26, prompting India to express deep shock and a commitment to exploring all legal avenues. Subsequently, an appeal against the death sentences was filed.

Arindam Bagchi, spokesperson for the External Affairs Ministry, emphasized India ongoing engagement with Qatari authorities on the matter. The government pledged to provide comprehensive legal and consular assistance to the Indian nationals involved. The Qatari court has kept the judgment confidential, and neither the charges against the individuals nor the court proceedings have been made public by either the Qatari authorities or New Delhi.

In response to the Qatari court ruling, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) reiterated the high importance attached to the case, emphasizing the exploration of all legal options. Charges were initially filed against the eight Indian navy veterans on March 25, and they underwent trial under Qatari law.

The former Navy officers, with up to two decades of unblemished service, held significant positions, including instructors in the force. Notably, Al-Dhara Global ceased its operations in Doha in May, prompting the return of its primarily Indian workforce. The Indian Navy had previously advocated for the release of these personnel, engaging with top government officials to address the situation.