New Delhi: A former Indian Navy officer remains in Qatar despite receiving relief in a high profile espionage case, with officials confirming that his continued detention is linked to a separate legal matter. Purnendu Tiwari was among eight ex naval personnel arrested in 2022 on espionage charges, a case that had drawn significant attention.
While the death sentences awarded to all eight were later commuted by a Qatari court in 2023, and the others have since returned to India, Tiwari continues to remain in Qatar due to a different case filed against him.
The Ministry of External Affairs clarified that the ongoing issue is unrelated to the earlier espionage charges. Officials stated that Tiwari has been detained under a separate case, for which a court in Qatar has already delivered a verdict. Authorities also confirmed that Indian officials are in regular contact with him, as well as with his family and legal representatives, as efforts continue to monitor the situation.
It is understood that the case pertains to alleged financial irregularities connected to his former employer. However, details of the proceedings remain limited.
Concerns about his condition have been raised by family members, who claim he has been in custody for several months and is facing serious health challenges. They have highlighted that he is dealing with post traumatic stress along with other medical issues, and have expressed worry over his deteriorating condition.
Family members have also questioned the basis of the new charges, suggesting they stem from the same circumstances as the earlier case in which he was granted relief.
The case continues to be closely followed, with diplomatic channels engaged as India seeks to address the situation and ensure appropriate support for the detained veteran.
