During Shah Rukh Khan’s recent trip to Qatar, multiple reports emerged suggesting his involvement in securing the release of Indian Navy veterans detained by the Middle Eastern nation on espionage charges. However, on Tuesday, SRK’s team refuted these claims with a statement. “The office of Mr. Shah Rukh Khan addresses the reports alleging his role in the release of India’s naval officers from Qatar, stating that such assertions are baseless. The successful resolution of this matter solely lies with Indian government officials, and Mr. Khan’s involvement is categorically denied. Diplomatic matters are best handled by our competent leaders. Mr. Khan, like many fellow Indians, rejoices in the safe return of the naval officers and wishes them well,” the statement clarified. SRK’s manager, Pooja Dadlani, echoed the statement on her Instagram, dismissing the rumors. On December 28, 2023, Qatar’s Court of Appeal commuted the death sentences given to the eight men in October 2023. These individuals, imprisoned since October 2022, were accused of spying on a submarine program, although the specific charges remain undisclosed. Of the eight former Navy officers, seven have returned to India, according to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), as announced in an official statement on February 12. The Indian government welcomed the release, stating, “The Government of India welcomes the release of eight Indian nationals working for the Dahra Global company who were detained in Qatar. Seven out of the eight of them have returned to India. We appreciate the decision by the Amir of the State of Qatar to enable the release and home-coming of these nationals.” During his visit to Qatar for work commitments, SRK met Qatar Prime Minister HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani in Doha. He was honored as a special guest at the AFC final during his stay.
