Qatari Court sentences 8 former Indian Navy officers to death penalty

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of India has responded with profound shock and has pledged to leave no stone unturned in the pursuit of all available legal avenues to secure their release.

In a startling turn of events, eight former Indian Navy personnel, who have been detained in Qatar for over a year, now face the grim prospect of the death penalty following a verdict passed by a Qatari court. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has responded with profound shock and has pledged to leave no stone unturned in the pursuit of all available legal avenues to secure their release.

In an official statement, the foreign ministry conveyed, “We have initial information that the Court of First Instance of Qatar has today passed a judgement in the case involving 8 Indian employees of Al Dahra Company. We are deeply shocked by the verdict of death penalty and are awaiting the detailed judgement. We are in touch with the family members and the legal team, and we are exploring all legal options.”

Highlighting the gravity of the situation, the statement emphasized, “We attach high importance to this case, and have been following it closely. We will continue to extend all consular and legal assistance. We will also take up the verdict with Qatari authorities. Due to the confidential nature of proceedings of this case, it would not be appropriate to make any further comment at this juncture.”

Since their initial detention in August 2022, these individuals have languished in incarceration. New Delhi, having gained consular access, has been relentless in its efforts to secure their release. The trial, which began in March, has been marked by a series of rejected bail pleas, resulting in an extended period of detention under Qatari authorities.

Qatari court delivered its verdict today, further heightening the urgency and gravity of the situation. The future of arrested army personnel hangs in the balance, as diplomatic efforts intensify to reverse this judgment.