Kin of ex-Navy men file appeal against Qatar death penalty

NEW DELHI WILL CONTINUE TO EXTEND ALL LEGAL AND CONSULAR SUPPORT, EAM SPOKESPERSON ARINDAM BAGCHI SAID ON THURSDAY

- Rezaul H Laskar

The families of the eight former Indian Navy personnel sentenced to death by a Qatari court have filed an appeal and the Indian government is engaged with authorities in Qatar to find a resolution to the issue that has cast a shadow on bilateral ties.

The eight men, including decorated officers who have commanded frontline warships in the Indian Navy, were sentenced to death by Qatar's Court of First Instance on October 26 after being detained for more than a year on undeclared charges. Reports have suggested the men were accused of espionage.

"The judgment [by the Court of First Instance] is confidential and has only been shared with the legal team. They are now pursuing further legal steps, and an appeal has already been filed. We will also remain engaged with the Qatari authorities on this matter," external affairs ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi told a regular media briefing.