Eight Indians were sentenced to death on Thursday (26 October) in the Arab country Qatar. All of them are accused of espionage. Eight months ago, 8 former Indian Navy officers were arrested in Qatar on charges of espionage. This arrest took place in September last year. In this case, the Indian Foreign Ministry has issued a statement saying that we are surprised by the decision of death penalty. A detailed decision is awaited.
The Ministry of External Affairs said, “We are in touch with the family members and the legal team and are exploring all legal options.” We consider this matter very important and are keeping a close eye on it. Will continue to provide all consular and legal assistance. Will also raise the decision with Qatari authorities.
The ministry said that due to the confidential nature of the proceedings in this case, it would not be appropriate to make any further comments at this time.
All these officers are accused of spying for Israel and have worked at different posts in the Indian Navy.
They are accused of spying for Israel. Reputed officers are also included in these 8 people. They once commanded major Indian warships.
Presently they were working for Global Technologies and Consultancy Services. This is a private firm, which provides training and related services to the armed forces of Qatar.
Names of these eight former marines are Captain Navtej Singh Gill, Captain Birendra Kumar Verma, Captain Saurabh Vashishtha, Commander Amit Nagpal, Commander Purnendu Tiwari, Commander Sugunakar Pakala, Commander Sanjeev Gupta and Sailor Ragesh.
All of them were arrested from their local residence for questioning on charges of espionage. According to the report, the bail petitions of these 8 Indians have been rejected several times. Qatari authorities had extended his custody. On Thursday, Qatar’s court sentenced death to 8 Indians.
Citing official Indian sources, news agency ANI said that Indian agencies will now take up the matter at the highest possible level. But the Qatar government has not shown any signs of leniency on this issue. Sources told the news agency that former Indian Navy officers are suspected to be implicated by Pakistani intelligence agencies.
