India has taken a significant step in addressing the serious matter of the death penalty handed to eight former Navy personnel by filing an appeal with the Qatari authorities. The individuals, associated with Al Dahra Company, were arrested last year under circumstances deemed “confidential.” The legal proceedings have unfolded, and during the weekly briefing the Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson, Arindam Bagchi, confirmed the filing of an appeal, underlining the ongoing engagement with Qatari authorities.
Consular Access
Bagchi reiterated that the judgment, delivered on October 26 by the Court of First Instance in Qatar, remains confidential, accessible only to the legal team involved. With a commitment to due process, he highlighted the continuous pursuit of legal avenues while maintaining communication with the Qatari authorities. Consular access to the detainees, granted on November 7, has been facilitated by the Indian Embassy in Qatar. And reassured that the government remains in contact with the detainees’ families, extending both legal and consular assistance.
The charges against the Indian nationals, though undisclosed by Qatari authorities, reportedly involve their private roles with Dahra Global in overseeing the induction of Italian small stealth submarines U2I2. The individuals facing the death penalty are named as Captain Navtej Singh Gill, Captain Birendra Kumar Verma, Captain Saurabh Vasisht, Commander Amit Nagpal, Commander Purnendu Tiwari, Commander Sugunakar Pakala, Commander Sanjeev Gupta, and Sailor Ragesh.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, expressing deep concern for the families, had assured them of the government’s prioritization of the case. While the October 27 ruling was deemed “deeply shocking” by India, the government has explored all legal options in response. The charges were initially filed on March 25, and the trial commenced on March 29. Dahra Global ceased its operations in Doha in May, prompting the return of all former employees, primarily Indians, to their homeland.
In tandem with the government’s efforts, the families of the former Navy personnel have submitted a mercy plea to the Emir of Qatar. The complexity and sensitivity of the case underscore the importance of avoiding speculation, as urged by the official spokesperson. The government’s commitment to securing the release of the individuals facing the death penalty remains resolute, emphasizing diplomatic engagements and adherence to legal procedures.
