Families have gone to great lengths during this period, including offering prayers and writing appeals to Qatari authorities to grant the veterans pardon….reports Asian Lite News
The ongoing trial of eight Indian naval veterans is set to continue on Tuesday, October 3, following a hiatus of nearly two months. The families of these veterans, most of whom are currently in Doha, are expressing optimism regarding the upcoming hearing.
The wait has been a trying ordeal, lasting for 13 months. While there is speculation about the possibility of the veterans being repatriated, it remains uncertain until an official announcement is made, according to an The New Indian Express report.
Family members are kept outside the trial court and are not privy to the proceedings within, it was reported.
Families have gone to great lengths during this period, including offering prayers and writing appeals to Qatari authorities to grant the veterans pardon. The Indian government has also provided substantial support. Their anticipation for the outcome of the October 3rd hearing is palpable.
It has been a year since the eight veterans were instructed to prepare to return to India, only for the departure never to materialize. Their packed bags serve as a symbol of hope, but the court’s decision will ultimately determine their fate.
To recap, these eight naval veterans were employed by Dhara Consultancies, a naval consultancy firm owned by an Omani Emir. Their troubles began on the night of August 30, 2022, when they were approached by members of Qatar’s Ministry of Interior, urging them to participate in a naval exercise, which led to their imprisonment. They have since transitioned from solitary confinement to shared accommodations.
Some of the veterans have submitted mercy pleas, raising hopes that either a pardon or a court trial could facilitate their repatriation to India.