In a significant diplomatic breakthrough, India has successfully secured the release of eight former Indian Navy personnel who were imprisoned in Qatar. Seven of them have already returned home, nearly three-and-a-half months after they were initially handed death sentences by a Qatari court, which were later commuted to varying jail terms.

The wife of one of the naval veterans expressed her gratitude towards External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar for his promise to bring them back to India, which the Narendra Modi government successfully fulfilled. Mansa Vashisht, the wife of Captain Saurabh Vashisht, recalled the uncertain and difficult period when her husband and seven others were sentenced to death by the Qatari court. She mentioned that during their meeting with Jaishankar, he assured them of their return, and she expressed her heartfelt thanks to the Indian government for fulfilling this promise.

Captain Saurabh Vashisht himself credited the government of India for accomplishing what seemed like an impossible feat. He acknowledged the personal intervention of Prime Minister Narendra Modi with the Qatar government, which ultimately led to their release. Vashisht, visibly relieved, expressed his gratitude as he stood in Dehradun with his family.

Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra disclosed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had continuously overseen all developments in the case and had proactively taken initiatives to ensure the safe return of the Indian nationals. Kwatra added that New Delhi is currently working with the Qatari government to expedite the return of the eighth individual.

The seven freed Indian nationals arrived in Delhi on Monday, landing at approximately 2:35 am via a private airline. Commander Purnendu Tiwari, however, was unable to return due to pending paperwork, as per individuals familiar with the matter.

This successful rescue operation serves as a testament to India's commitment to the well-being and safety of its citizens abroad. The government's swift action and effective diplomatic efforts have ensured the return of the Navy veterans, bringing a sense of relief and joy to their families and the nation as a whole.