NEW DELHI (Diya TV) — In a surprising development, Qatar’s Court of Appeal commuted the death sentences of eight former Indian Navy officers, convicted on spy charges in the Dahra Global case. India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is actively engaged in discussing the next steps with legal experts and the families of the convicted individuals.
A day after the Qatar Court of Appeal’s decision, MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said “the sentences have been reduced, but I don’t have any additional information to share until we see the detailed judgment. We would urge you again not to engage in speculation. The interests of Indians and their family members are our foremost concern.”
The eight former Indian naval officers were initially sentenced to death last year, accused of espionage related to a submarine program. However, the recent decision by the Qatar Court of Appeal has modified their sentences to imprisonment.
Bagchi confirmed the existence of a treaty between India and Qatar on the transfer of sentenced persons. However, he added that its current status, whether in force or requiring ratification by both parties, needs verification.
The Dahra Global case, which has attracted international attention, involves allegations of spying on a submarine program, leading to the imprisonment of the eight retired Indian naval personnel in Qatar since October 2022.
India’s ambassador to Qatar, along with other officials and family members, was present during the court proceedings.
