Protecting interests of Indians priority of PM Modi: Smriti Irani

Qatar has released eight jailed former Indian Navy personnel nearly three-and-a-half months after they were handed down death sentences in a case of suspected espionage.

Union Minister Smriti Irani told reporters that the manner in which the Navy veterans have returned to India is due to the government's special efforts. (PTI)

The BJP on Monday credited the government for the release of the former Navy personnel who were jailed in Qatar, asserting that the protection of interests of Indians, wherever they may be, has been a priority of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Union Minister Smriti Irani told reporters that the manner in which the Navy veterans have returned to India is due to the government’s special efforts.

Qatar has released eight jailed former Indian Navy personnel nearly three-and-a-half months after they were handed down death sentences in a case of suspected espionage.

Story continues below this ad

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said seven of them have returned to India and that India appreciates the decision by the Amir of Qatar to enable the release and home-coming of the Indians.

Referring to the evacuation of Indians at different points of time from Ukraine, Sudan and Nepal during crises, Irani said “ghar wapsi” and protection of interests of Indians, wherever they may be in the world, have been Prime Minister Modi’s priority.

Stay updated with the latest - Click here to follow us on Instagram