Doha, A Qatari court today sentenced eight former personnel of the Indian Navy to death, reinforcing allegations of India’s purported involvement in terrorist activities in foreign territories.
According to a news release by Kashmir Media Service, the verdict was passed by Qatar’s Court of First Instance, detailing the names of the convicts: Commander Purnendu Tiwari, Commander Sugunakar Pakala, Commander Sanjeev Gupta, Captain Navtej Singh Gill, Captain Birendra Kumar Verma, Captain Saurabh Vasisht, Commander Amit Nagpal, and Sailor Ragesh Gopakumar. Notably, Commander Purnendu Tiwari had been recognized with the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award in 2019 by then-Indian President, Ram Nath Kovind.
These officers were taken into custody in August 2022 on accusations of spying for Israel. Their arrest was particularly significant as it highlighted India’s potential role in global terrorism. Under the guise of employment with Al Dahra Global Technologies and Consultancy Services – a private firm with ties to the Omani military that served Qatari security agencies – these personnel were allegedly involved in espionage and state-endorsed acts of terrorism. The initial discovery of their arrest in Doha was made public via a social media post by Dr. Meetu Bhargava in October, two months post their detainment.
Qatari officials have consistently classified these Indian Navy officials as terrorists, claiming their involvement in espionage and terrorist activities in foreign lands, leveraging Qatari territory.
Some analysts interpret this verdict as a significant blow to India’s international reputation, insinuating its clandestine endeavors to incite unrest in foreign lands through terrorism sponsorship.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs, responding to the development, expressed profound shock at the verdict, while clarifying they are in close contact with the affected families and are assessing all legal options. The ministry’s statement read, “We attach high importance to this case, and have been following it closely. We will continue to extend all consular and legal assistance. We will also take up the verdict with Qatari authorities.” The statement refrained from any further comment, alluding to the sensitive nature of the case’s proceedings.