Qatar’s Court of Appeal reduced the death sentences for eight Indian naval veterans, but Commander Purnendu Tiwari remains in Qatar. On the eve of Amir Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani’s visit, his colleagues appealed for his return. Their emotional plea highlights the importance of diplomatic relations and the need for Tiwari’s swift resolution to reunite with his family.
In December 2023, Qatar’s Court of Appeal commuted the death sentences of eight Indian naval veterans to prison terms ranging from three to 25 years. Seven of these veterans were released from a 17-month detention due to negotiated efforts and returned to India on February 11, 2024. On the eve of Amir Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani’s state visit to India, two of the freed veterans urgently appealed for the return of their colleague, Commander Purnendu Tiwari, who remains detained in Qatar.
Captains Navtej Gill and Saurabh Vasisht, along with Commanders Sanjeev Gupta, Amit Nagpal, BK Verma, Sugunakar Pakala, and sailor Ragesh, have voiced concerns for Tiwari’s well-being. They emphasized the emotional toll of his continued absence, particularly regarding his elderly mother. They implored both Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Amir Al-Thani to facilitate Tiwari’s return, highlighting the significance of diplomatic relations between India and Qatar.
The group had been held on unspecified charges since August 2022 while working for Al Dahra Global Technologies, which provided services to the Qatari military. Prior to their sentencing, the veterans had notable careers in the Indian Navy, with Gill receiving the President’s gold medal for excellence. Tiwari had also been honored with the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award for his contributions to the Indian armed forces.
Gupta recounted the harrowing experience during their captivity, 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.” In that duration, Gupta occupied himself with reading, completing 42 books, while practicing meditation and yoga to maintain his mental health during challenging times.
The situation surrounding Commander Purnendu Tiwari remains critical as former naval veterans appeal for his return from Qatar. The veterans’ urgent call to both Indian and Qatari leaders underscores the emotional and diplomatic importance of resolving this captivity. Their previous experiences of hardship while detained highlight the necessity of swift action to reunite Tiwari with his family, reinforcing the bond between the two nations.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
