In December 2023, Qatar’s Court of Appeal reduced the death sentences of eight Indian nationals to prison terms. Following their release, naval veterans have appealed for the return of Commander Purnendu Tiwari, who remains detained in Qatar. The veterans made the appeal to Indian Prime Minister Modi and Qatar’s Amir prior to the Amir’s visit to India, emphasizing Tiwari’s need to reunite with his family.
In December 2023, Qatar’s Court of Appeal modified the death sentences for eight Indians, commending them to prison terms ranging from three to 25 years. Among the seven naval veterans who were initially sentenced to death but later released was a group of returning officers who are now advocating for the return of their colleague, Commander Purnendu Tiwari, who remains incarcerated in Qatar under a travel ban.
The veterans, including Captains Navtej Gill and Saurabh Vasisht along with several others, appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Qatar’s Amir Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani for assistance in facilitating Commander Tiwari’s return to India. This plea coincided with the Amir’s imminent state visit to India, highlighting the importance of diplomatic relations between the two nations.
Gupta and Pakala emphasized the need for a swift resolution to Tiwari’s situation to allow him to reunite with his family, particularly his elderly mother. They underscored the need for the travel ban to be lifted, expressing optimism for a resolution given the ongoing diplomatic engagement between India and Qatar.
The eight veterans were employed by Al Dahra Global Technologies, which provided services to Qatar’s armed forces and security agencies and had been detained since August 2022. Their respective careers in the Indian Navy span outstanding achievements, with individuals like Gill receiving the President’s gold medal and Tiwari being honored with the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award for his contributions.
Reflecting on their harrowing experience of captivity, Gupta shared insights into the psychological and physical challenges faced during their detention in Qatar. He recalled focusing on self-improvement by reading extensively and practicing meditation during his lengthy imprisonment.
The situation involving Commander Purnendu Tiwari illustrates ongoing legal and diplomatic challenges faced by Indian nationals abroad. His fellow veterans’ campaign for his return underscores the importance of diplomatic intervention in resolving such issues. This case not only highlights the depth of the personal stakes involved but also the responsibilities of nations in safeguarding their citizens’ well-being abroad.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
