In a significant development, a Qatar court on Thursday decided to reduce the sentences of eight former Navy officers convicted in the Dahra Global case, altering their initial death penalty to a jail term. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) affirmed the Indian government’s commitment to providing consular and legal assistance to the citizens involved and stated its intention to persistently engage with Qatari authorities on the matter.
Verdict Overview and Continued Assistance
The MEA acknowledged the Qatar Court of Appeal’s decision to reduce the sentences in the Dahra Global case, emphasizing that the detailed judgment is still awaited. The statement highlighted the presence of India’s Ambassador to Qatar and other officials in the court during the appeal proceedings, underscoring the nation’s unwavering support for the affected individuals and their families.
“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,” affirmed the MEA in its statement regarding the verdict.
Qatar Court Reduces Sentences of Former Navy Officers in Dahra Global Case; India Vows Continued Support
The eight former Navy officers, employed by Doha-based Dahra Global, faced arrest in August 2022. Although the Qatari authorities did not initially disclose the charges against these Indian citizens, sources suggested allegations of espionage on behalf of Israel.
The chargesheet was filed in March 2023, leading to a grim turn of events as the court handed down death sentences on October 26, 2023. The unexpected ruling prompted shock and concern from India’s Ministry of External Affairs, initiating intensive diplomatic discussions with Qatari officials.
Expressing their dismay over the verdict, India initiated diplomatic efforts to address the situation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged with Qatar’s Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani during the COP28 summit in Dubai, discussing not only the ongoing case but also emphasizing the well-being of the broader Indian community in Qatar. The diplomatic dialogue aimed to find a resolution and ensure fair treatment for the individuals involved in the Dahra Global case.
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