12 February,2024 04:54 PM IST | Gwalior | mid-day online correspondent
PM Narendra Modi/ File Photo
The release of eight former Indian Navy soldiers by Qatar has brought delight and relief to their families, who are grateful to both the Indian government and Qatari authorities for their safe return. Dr Meetu Bhargava, the sister of Commander (retired) Purnendu Tiwari, one of the released servicemen, expressed her satisfaction and thankfulness, even though her brother has yet to arrive in India.
Dr Bhargava expressed her emotions, saying that while she is overjoyed at the news of her brother's release, she is also looking forward to his return to India. She thanked the Indian government and the Emir of Qatar for enabling the release and assuring the personnel's safe return, reported PTI.
According to the report, Dr Bhargava emphasised the efforts of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, and India's Ambassador to Qatar, Vipulji, for their role in securing the release.
Dr Bhargava, a resident of Madhya Pradesh's Gwalior told PTI, "All the eight personnel have been released because of the government's efforts and seven of them have come to India. I am very happy about it."
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She added that had Tiwari returned she'd be happier and said, "But I am happy for him now. We also spoke (to him). He is fine in the embassy and has now gone back home to Doha. I came to know that he will be coming soon and I will be very happy once he returns."
Bhargava thanked the central government, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and the Emir of Qatar for the release of the former Navy personnel.
"I am also grateful to India's Ambassador to Qatar Vipulji for his efforts and patience in dealing with the situation. We also maintained patience during this stressful time," she told PTI.
The released troops, who were facing espionage charges in Qatar--which have not been divulged to the public--were initially condemned to death but then commuted to various jail terms. The Ministry of External Affairs expressed gratitude for the Emir of Qatar's decision to allow their release and return home.
Among those released are Captains (retired) Navtej Gill and Saurabh Vasisht, Commanders (retired) Amit Nagpal, SK Gupta, BK Verma, Sugunakar Pakala and Sailor Ragesh. Their return to India concludes a period of uncertainty and suffering for their families and loved ones, the PTI report added.
The release follows diplomatic efforts, including discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, signalling the importance of bilateral relations and the welfare of Indian nationals abroad. National Security Adviser Ajit Doval also played a crucial role in negotiations with Qatari authorities, facilitating the safe return of the personnel.
