Pardon eludes former Navy men in Qatar

Tribune News Service

Sandeep Dikshit

New Delhi, December 19

The National Day of Qatar on Monday ended in disappointment for the eight ex-Indian Navy officials on death row in Doha after a royal pardon eluded them due to a technical reason — their appeals are being heard by a higher court. Hopes had initially arisen after the Amiri Dewan, the Emir’s administrative office, said an order was issued on December 14 pardoning a number of prisoners. On Monday, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had conveyed National Day greetings to Qatar’s PM and Foreign Minister but he made no mention about the eight ex-Navy men.

Hopes now rest on either the appeal succeeding in the courts or the Emir pardoning them during Ramzan which fall in March-April of next year.

Hopes also rest on PM Narendra Modi appealing to the Qatar Emir for clemency or international circumstances compelling a release of prisoners. For instance, under western pressure over the murder of their asset Jamal Khashoggi, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman needed to display a magnanimous streak elsewhere which he did by releasing 850 prisoners in 2019 at the request of PM Narendra Modi.

Gulf nations also release prisoners on the occasion of a high-level incoming visit.

About The Author

Tribune News Service

The Tribune News Service brings you the latest news, analysis and insights from the region, India and around the world. Follow the Tribune News Service for a wide-ranging coverage of events as they unfold, with perspective and clarity.

Join Whatsapp Channel of The Tribune for latest updates.

#Indian Navy #Qatar