Qatari Court Commutes Death Sentences of Eight Ex-Indian Naval Officers

Qatari Court Commutes Death Sentences of Eight Ex-Indian Naval Officers/Representative Image

Qatari Court Commutes Death Sentences of Eight Ex-Indian Naval Officers

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed on Thursday that the Qatari Court has reduced the death penalty sentences of eight former Indian naval officers, previously arrested in the Dahra Global case, to prison terms.

The MEA acknowledged the verdict by the Court of Appeal of Qatar, which lowered the severity of the sentences.

In an official statement, the MEA stated, “We have noted the verdict today of the Court of Appeal of Qatar in the Dahra Global case, in which the sentences have been reduced.” However, a comprehensive judgment outlining the specifics of the case is still awaited.

The MEA assured that it remains in close contact with the legal team in Qatar and the family members of those involved, deliberating on the subsequent course of action.

The Indian Ambassador to Qatar and other officials, in tandem with family members, were present during the Court of Appeal proceedings.

The MEA reaffirmed its commitment to offer comprehensive consular and legal assistance to the affected individuals and vowed to continue engaging with Qatari authorities on the matter.

The eight Indian nationals have been in detention in Qatar since October 2022.

They were accused of espionage in connection with a submarine program, resulting in their initial death sentence. These charges have not been officially disclosed yet.

MEA’s earlier statements mentioned two recent hearings in the case, with the families of the detainees participating in the appeals.

The Court of First Instance in Qatar had initially pronounced the judgement against them.

Moreover, the MEA spokesperson highlighted the recent meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Qatar’s Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, at the COP28 summit in Dubai.

Their discussions revolved around bilateral partnerships and the welfare of the Indian community residing in Qatar.