New Delhi: In a significant development following India's diplomatic efforts, a Qatar court has accepted India's plea against the death penalty imposed on eight former Indian Navy personnel, accused of espionage. The court is set to schedule a hearing after reviewing the appeal, providing a ray of hope for the individuals who were sentenced last month.
The arrests occurred in August 2022 by Qatar's intelligence agency, citing espionage, though specific charges have not been disclosed publicly. Despite multiple rejected bail petitions, Indian authorities have secured consular access and are actively pursuing the release of the detained navy veterans.
The distinguished service records in of the accused, including Commander Purnendu Tiwari, Commander Sugunakar Pakala, and others with up to 20 years service in the Indian Navy, underscore the gravity of the situation.
These former officers held crucial positions, such as instructors within the force. The plea for intervention has reached the highest echelons of the Indian government, with Meetu Bhargava, the sister of one of the detainees, urging Prime Minister Narendra Modi to expedite their return.
Bhargava emphasized the officers' status as national pride and implored authorities to act swiftly for their repatriation.