India has officially lodged an appeal with Qatar following the recent imposition of the death penalty on eight former Navy personnel, whose arrests in August last year continue to be shrouded in mystery. The decorated officers, once commanders of major Indian warships, were working for Dahra Global Technologies and Consultancy Services at the time of their arrest. The verdict, which shocked the Indian government, has prompted swift diplomatic action.
External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi confirmed the appeal on Thursday, emphasizing that the case details remain confidential. The government, expressing deep shock at the verdict, is pursuing further legal avenues and maintaining close contact with the families of the eight Naval officers.
Consular access was last provided on Tuesday, and the External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, had previously met with the families in Delhi, assuring them of the government’s highest commitment to the case. Bagchi cautioned against speculation, considering the sensitivity of the matter.
The eight officers, including individuals like Navtej Singh Gill, Birendra Kumar Verma, and Saurabh Vasisht, had held the rank of Captain, and Amit Nagpal, Purnendu Tiwari, Sugunakar Pakala, and Sanjeev Gupta retired with the rank of Commander. They were employed by Dahra Global Technologies, a private firm providing training and services to Qatar’s armed forces, particularly involved in a sensitive project related to stealth submarines based on Italian technology.
Speculations have arisen, with media reports suggesting allegations of spying for Israel. However, last week, the families of the eight vehemently denied the spying accusations, asserting that their loved ones were in Qatar to contribute to the nation’s security and build its Navy, not engage in espionage.
In a social media post, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar reiterated the government’s commitment to the case, stating, “Met this morning with families of 8 Indians detained in Qatar. Stressed that Government attaches the highest importance to the case. Fully share concerns and pain of families…”
Navy Chief Admiral Hari Kumar has also pledged every effort to secure the release of the detained veterans, marking a united front in seeking justice and clarifying the circumstances surrounding their arrest and subsequent sentencing.
Sources By Agencies