In December 2023, Qatar’s Court of Appeal reduced the death sentences of eight Indian naval veterans to prison time. Two veterans, who were released in February 2024, are advocating for the return of their colleague, Commander Purnendu Tiwari, who remains in Qatar due to a travel ban. They have appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Qatar’s Amir ahead of a state visit, emphasizing the need for urgent diplomatic action.
In December 2023, Qatar’s Court of Appeal modified the death sentences given to eight Indian naval veterans, converting them to prison sentences ranging from three to 25 years. Among those who were freed after 17 months of captivity, Captains Navtej Gill and Saurabh Vasisht, along with several other veterans, have called upon Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Qatar’s Amir Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani to facilitate the return of their colleague, Commander Purnendu Tiwari, who remains detained in Qatar.
The veterans, who returned to India in February 2024, emphasized their request on the eve of Amir Al-Thani’s state visit to India, hoping for a resolution regarding Tiwari’s travel ban. Despite being released last year, Tiwari is still unable to return home. Gupta and Pakala remarked, “One year has passed since Qatar released eight decorated Indian Navy personnel but one of them remains there due to a travel ban.”
The sentences for the previous eight veterans stemmed from their unspecified charges since August 2022, while they worked for Al Dahra Global Technologies, a company facilitating training for Qatari armed forces. The eight men are renowned for their distinguished military careers, with one, Captain Gill, honored with the President’s gold medal during his naval academy graduation and subsequently serving in esteemed capacities.
Commander Tiwari had also received significant accolades, including the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award. Former detainee Sanjeev Gupta recounted his experience, stating, “Those 17 months were horrendous. The first six months were even worse. At times, I got this feeling that I might die there only.”
Amidst these developments, the veterans remain hopeful for Tiwari’s imminent return to India, allowing him to reunite with his family, particularly his elderly mother. They appeal for swift diplomatic engagement to lift the travel ban and facilitate his homecoming.
The plight of retired Indian naval personnel in Qatar emphasizes the need for diplomatic intervention to resolve their colleague’s situation. The veterans are actively seeking assistance from leaders in both countries, highlighting the emotional and familial stakes involved. The resolution of these issues is critical not only for Tiwari but also for the preservation of India-Qatar relations.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
