‘Deeply Shocked’: MEA To Contest Qatar Court’s Death Sentence For 8 Indians In Al Dahra Case

The Court of First Instance in Doha, Qatar, handed down a verdict today, sentencing eight Indian former Navy officials to death in connection with their involvement in the now-defunct Al Dahra company, known as Dahra Global. The verdict has prompted an immediate response from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in India.

In response to the verdict, the MEA issued a statement on Thursday expressing its deep concern. The ministry revealed that they possess initial information regarding the judgment and are eagerly awaiting the release of the detailed judgment from the Qatari authorities.

“We are deeply shocked by the verdict of the death penalty and are awaiting the detailed judgment. We are in touch with the family members and the legal team, and we are exploring all legal options. We will also take up the verdict with Qatari authorities,” the MEA stated.

The Indian government has been closely monitoring this case and has attached significant importance to it. The MEA reiterated its commitment to providing all necessary consular and legal assistance to the convicted individuals. Additionally, the Indian authorities will engage with the Qatari government to address the situation.

However, the MEA acknowledged the confidential nature of the proceedings and declined to comment further at this time.

What Is Al Dahra Case? 

The Al Dahra Case involved Indian Army officials and a United Arab Emirates (UAE) company in a case of corruption and espionage. The case came to light in 2012 when it was revealed that Al Dahra had bribed eight senior Indian Army officials to provide classified information about the Indian Army. The eight officials were arrested and charged with espionage and corruption.

The eight officials were convicted of corruption and sentenced to varying prison terms in 2016. The longest sentence was given to Brigadier Kulwinder Singh, who was sentenced to 10 years in prison. The other officials were sentenced to prison terms ranging from 3 to 7 years.

The eight Indian Army officials who were jailed in the Al Dahra Case are: 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. High News !