The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in India has confirmed that eight Indian nationals, who are former naval officers, have been sentenced to death by the Court of First Instance in Qatar. The individuals have been in Qatari custody since October 2022 and were accused of spying on a submarine program. The MEA expressed deep shock at the verdict and is awaiting the detailed judgment.
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In an official press release, the MEA stated that they have received initial information about the judgment and are in contact with the family members and the legal team. They are actively exploring all legal options and providing consular and legal assistance to the individuals. The Indian government will also engage with Qatari authorities regarding the verdict.
New Delhi had been granted consular access to the eight Indian nationals and had been working to secure their release. The individuals faced their first trial in late March.
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The sister of one of the detained officers had previously appealed to the Indian government for assistance, seeking the immediate return of the individuals to India. The case remains highly sensitive, and the MEA refrained from making further comments due to the confidential nature of the proceedings.
