8 Former Indian navy veterans sentenced to death in Qatar

• Eight former Indian Navy personnel working in Qatar have been sentenced to death
• The Indian government is shocked by the verdict and is actively working to explore legal options for their release
• Family members and the public have appealed for immediate humanitarian action to bring the detained navy officers back to India

A court in Qatar has sentenced eight former Indian Navy personnel, who were working for Al Dahra Global Technologies and Consultancy Services, to death. The charges against them were not publicly disclosed by Qatari authorities. The Indian government expressed shock over the verdict and pledged to explore all legal options to secure their release. The detained Indian nationals have faced numerous rejections of bail pleas, extended detentions, and charges of espionage.

The Ministry of External Affairs in India reacted with shock to the court's decision in Qatar. While awaiting the detailed judgment, the ministry is in contact with the family members and legal team of the detained Indians, exploring all legal options for their release. Although the precise charges remain undisclosed, the detained individuals are believed to have been charged with espionage, and they had their first trial in late March. Indian authorities have assured the families that they will extend consular and legal assistance and take up the verdict with Qatari authorities.

Family members of the detained officers, including Meetu Bhargava, have been calling on the Indian government to intervene and secure the immediate return of the eight former Navy officers. The lack of details surrounding the charges and the severity of the sentencing have raised concerns about their welfare. Journalists reporting on the case have also faced orders to leave Qatar, pointing to a lack of transparency in the legal proceedings.