India on Thursday received consular access to eight Indians, who have been in the custody of Qatari authorities for around three months, informed the official spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs, Arindam Bagchi.
The eight former Indian Navy officials were arrested by the Government of Qatar on charges that have not been made public so far. In all, Qatar has thrice provided diplomatic access to the Indians.
“The objective of today’s meeting was to talk to them and get a sense of their well-being and figure out what further assistance they require. We will continue to monitor this,” said Mr. Bagchi, adding, ”this is an important case for us”.
According to earlier reports, the Indian nationals were employed with Dahra Global Technologies and Consultancy Services, a private organisation. It appears that the Government of Qatar has not pressed charges against the arrested Indians so far.
India and Qatar maintain warm relations and a large number of Indian citizens work in the Gulf country. Sources hinted that India’s relations with Qatar are on positive track and that India hopes for an amicable solution of the case.
