Qatar has released eight former Indian Navy personnel who were initially sentenced to death in August 2022 on undisclosed charges. They returned home on Monday, except for one individual. Last December, Qatar’s Court of Appeal reduced their sentences to prison terms ranging from three to 25 years. The Indian government welcomed their release, appreciating Qatar’s decision. However, details regarding the charges or conditions of release remain undisclosed, although there were reports of espionage charges.
Indian officials, including National Security Adviser Ajit Doval, played a significant role in negotiations for their release. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also discussed the matter during his meeting with Qatar’s Emir in December. One of the commanders, Purnendu Tiwari, remained in Qatar due to family ties and is expected to return soon.
The released individuals expressed gratitude towards Modi and Qatar’s Emir for their safe return. The commutation of their death sentences enabled India to utilize a 2015 agreement with Qatar for the transfer of sentenced persons. This agreement permits citizens convicted of criminal offenses to serve their sentences in their home country, excluding those sentenced to death. India had previously expressed shock at the initial death sentences and vowed to explore all legal avenues for their assistance.
