A Qatar court has commuted the death sentence of eight former Indian Navy officers involved in the Dahra Global case.
This is considered a significantly big win for India and its diplomatic efforts.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) promptly responded to this development, stating, “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.”
While awaiting the detailed judgment, the MEA affirmed its commitment to providing consular and legal assistance, pledging to continue addressing the matter with Qatari authorities.
The eight ex-Navy personnel had initially faced a death sentence in Qatar and have been in jail since October 2022, accused of espionage related to a submarine program. The specific charges have not been disclosed by Qatari authorities, contributing to the case being referred to as the Dahra Global Case.
During this period, Indian Ambassador to Qatar and officials, along with the families of the accused, were present in the Court of Appeal. The MEA emphasized unwavering support for the implicated officers since the case's inception.
Adding to the context, the MEA underscored the connection between the Dahra Global case and Prime Minister Narendra Modi's meeting with the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamin Bin Hamad Al-Thani. This meeting occurred on the sidelines of COP28 in Dubai, where the leaders discussed a range of bilateral issues. Prime Minister Modi specifically addressed the well-being of Indian citizens, reflecting a comprehensive diplomatic engagement that contributed to the positive outcome for the eight ex-Navy officers in Qatar.
The Ministry of External Affairs, however, is keeping a tight watch on the situation. It has said that it will continue to extend all the consular and legal assistance.
Earlier, India's Ministry of External Affairs, which was following the matter expressed shock over the ruling and began some intense diplomatic deliberations with the Qatari authorities.
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