New Delhi “shocked”

Qatar sentences former Indian officer to death for “spying for Israel”

Friday, 27 October 2023 | 13:38

A court in Qatar has sentenced eight former Indian Navy personnel to death on espionage charges – a verdict that “shocked” New Delhi, Britain’s Independent reported. The former navy member was arrested in the emirate last year on suspicion of spying for Israel and gathering information about Qatar’s military submarine program, according to The Times of Israel.

The Indian government has announced that it will consider all legal options in this case. It also said it would discuss the ruling with Qatari authorities and continue to ensure “all consular and legal support” for the detainees. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed its deep disappointment with the death sentence and is now awaiting details.

The Indian citizen sentenced to death in Qatar is an experienced military officer

The eight people are employees of the Al Dahra consulting company, which advises the Qatari government on submarine procurement. The detainees were identified 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 Seaman Ragesh, according to The Hindu.

Therefore, veterans have impressive careers with up to 20 years of service. Neither the Indian government nor the Qatari government have disclosed the charges against these individuals. The decision was taken when Israel launched an attack on the Gaza Strip in retaliation for the Hamas terror attack on October 7.

800,000 Indians live in Qatar

With an estimated 800,000 Indians living in Qatar, they represent the country’s largest expatriate community, accounting for nearly 25 percent of Qatar’s total population of around 2.8 million people.

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The Indian community in Qatar is active in various sectors, ranging from construction, healthcare, IT and education. Their presence not only contributes to Qatar’s economic development, but also to the country’s cultural diversity.