Delhi, 12 February (H.S): The Congress on Monday expressed their immense relief and happiness at the news of Qatar releasing eight former Indian naval personnel, who were handed down death sentences nearly three and a half months ago.

Qq QQThe Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed that seven of the eight men have returned to India, and India is grateful to the Amir of Qatar for facilitating their release and safe homecoming. The Navy veterans were sentenced to death by Qatar’s Court of First Instance on October 26 last year in a case of suspected espionage. Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh took to social media to share the party's joy and stated that the entire nation joins in welcoming the former naval officers back home. He also conveyed his good wishes to the men and their families, who have been through a difficult and uncertain time.

The Indian nationals, who were working with private company Al Dahra, were arrested in August 2022, and neither the Qatari authorities nor New Delhi have disclosed the charges against them. The Congress' support and celebration of their release highlights the importance of diplomacy and cooperation between nations in resolving such sensitive issues.

Hindusthan Samachar/ Indrani Sarkar