This Post Is Recently Updated on Dec 29, 2023 @ 22:47 pm by TBB Desk
In a significant development, the Court of Appeal in Qatar has commuted the death sentences of eight former Indian Navy personnel who were arrested last year in the Dahra Global case. The verdict, announced on Thursday, has now replaced the death sentences with jail terms. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has responded by stating that it will collaborate with the legal team and the family members of the convicted individuals to determine the next steps in the case.
MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi addressed the matter during a press conference on December 29. He emphasized the need for cautiousness in speculating about the case’s details, highlighting that the interests of the Indian nationals and their family members are the government’s top priority.
Bagchi’s statement read, “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 be discussing the next possible steps with the legal team and the family members.”
The eight former Indian Navy personnel had faced the death penalty in connection with espionage allegations related to a submarine program. With the commutation of their sentences, they now face imprisonment.
The MEA issued a statement acknowledging the verdict of the Qatar Court of Appeal and expressed the government’s commitment to supporting the affected individuals and their families. It was noted that the Indian Ambassador to Qatar and other officials had been present during the Court of Appeal’s proceedings.
The statement further said, “We have stood by them since the beginning of the matter and we will continue to extend all consular and legal assistance. We will also continue to take up the matter with the Qatari authorities. Due to the confidential and sensitive nature of proceedings of this case, it would not be appropriate to make any further comment at this juncture.”
Additionally, Bagchi addressed the existence of a treaty on the transfer of sentenced persons between India and Qatar. While confirming the existence of such an agreement, he noted that its enforcement depends on ratification by both sides, and further verification is required to ascertain its current status.
The case has garnered significant attention and concern, as the eight Indian nationals, all retired naval personnel, have been detained in Qatar since October 2022. As the situation unfolds, the Indian government remains committed to providing support and assistance to its citizens involved in this sensitive legal matter.
