Former marines detained in Qatar released after a year in jail, here's how

New Delhi: After spending more than a year incarcerated in Qatar, eight former Indian marines, who had been sentenced to death in October 2023 on charges of spying for Israel, have been released. The Court of Appeal in Qatar had intervened in December, staying the death sentence.

Reunion with families in Delhi

Seven out of the eight former marines, who were released, reached Delhi on Monday. Families expressed joy and relief upon their return. Mansa Vashishtha, wife of Captain Saurabh Vashishtha, one of the released marines, shared her gratitude, stating that External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had assured her of her husband's return, a promise fulfilled by the Indian government.

Saurabh Vashishtha credits government for release

Captain Saurabh Vashishtha attributed his release to the intervention of the Government of India. He acknowledged the personal involvement of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, stating that he is now back with his family in Dehradun.

Commander Sanjeev Gupta: PM Modi's role crucial

Former naval officer Commander Sanjeev Gupta, also released from Qatar jail, highlighted the lack of information regarding the allegations against them. He credited Prime Minister Modi for the release, emphasizing the crucial role played by Modi's intervention and the assistance of Indian Ambassador to Qatar, Vipul.

Commander BK Verma reflects on detention

Commander BK Verma, another released marine, who missed his daughter's wedding due to incarceration, expressed that such challenges are part of life. He thanked God for his release, and his wife, grateful for her husband's presence at their nephew's wedding, felt as if they were reliving their daughter's wedding occasion.

Who are the eight former marines?

The released individuals from the Indian Navy are Captain Navtej Singh Gill, Captain Saurabh Vashishtha, Commander Purnendu Tiwari, Captain Birendra Kumar Verma, Commander Sugunakar Pakala, Commander Sanjeev Gupta, Commander Amit Nagpal, and Sailor Rakesh. They were associated with Aldahra Global Technologies and Consultancy in Qatar, a company providing services and defense solutions.