Indian Ambassador Met Eight Navy Veterans Sentenced To Death In Qatar, Two Appeal Hearings Till Now: MEA

The spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced on Thursday (7 December) that India has been granted consular access to the eight ex-Navy staff who have been condemned to death in Qatar under allegations of espionage.

Arindam Bagchi, the spokesperson for MEA, confirmed that the Indian Ambassador was granted consular access to meet the inmates in prison on 3 December, which was a Sunday. His statement came in response to a question posed at a press conference held in New Delhi.

During the COP28 event in Dubai, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a meeting with Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad, the Amir of Qatar. Their discussion revolved around the overall bilateral relationship and the welfare of the Indian community, he mentioned.

According to Indian Express, Bagchi further stated that India is diligently monitoring the situation and providing comprehensive legal and consular support.

He mentioned that two appeal hearings have taken place. The families initiated an appeal, and the detainees made a final appeal. These appeals were conducted on 23 and 30 November.

"On 3 December, our ambassador was granted consular access to visit all eight individuals in prison," stated Bagchi. He further added, "Despite the sensitive nature of this issue, we will persist in our efforts and share any information we can."

All the Indian nationals, who were employees at Dahra Global based in Doha, were arrested in August 2022.