Title: Indian External Affairs Minister Meets Families of 8 Ex-Navy Officers Sentenced to Death in Qatar Espionage Case
New Delhi: Indian External Affairs Minister Jaishankar expressed great concern on Monday as he met with the families of eight ex-Indian Navy officers who were sentenced to death by a Qatari court on charges of espionage. Assuring the families, he stated that the government will make all efforts to secure their release.
Minister Jaishankar took to social media to highlight the meeting, stating, “Today I met the families of eight Indians who have been sentenced by the Qatar court. I emphasized the government’s deep concern regarding this case and assured them of our commitment to secure the release of these individuals. We understand the pain of the families and stand by them.”
The accusations against the former Indian Navy officers emerged when it was alleged that they had shared sensitive information about submarines with Israel while employed at Dahra Global Technologies and Consultancy Services in Qatar. Subsequently, in August last year, the Qatari intelligence agency apprehended and detained the eight individuals on suspicion of espionage.
Since their arrest, the accused Indians have been kept in solitary confinement, with their case being heard on October 26th at the Qatar court. Shockingly, the court sentenced all eight former Indian Navy officers to death.
The Indian government has firmly expressed its discontent with the verdict. In an official statement released by the Ministry of External Affairs of India, it exclaimed, “This verdict is highly alarming. We await further details of the verdict and are closely coordinating with the families and legal representatives of the accused. We are also exploring all legal options and engaging in dialogue with the Qatari authorities. We are dedicated to addressing this matter with utmost priority.”
The severe sentence has sparked outrage in India, with citizens expressing concern over the welfare and safety of the eight former Navy officers. Calls for diplomatic intervention and a fair trial have resonated across the nation.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs continues to closely monitor the situation, striving to ensure justice for the accused individuals. The government is actively engaged in efforts to secure their release, making use of all available legal avenues and working closely with Qatari authorities.
The families of the eight Indians are hopeful that the government’s commitment will lead to a favorable outcome and the return of their loved ones. The case has attracted widespread attention, emphasizing the importance of bilateral relations and international cooperation in tackling sensitive matters relating to national security and espionage allegations.