Tech Mahindra Official Held Without Charges for Months
An Indian IT professional employed at Tech Mahindra has been in Qatari custody for nearly three months, with no formal charges filed against him, sparking growing concern among his family members.
Amit Gupta, a senior executive at the Mumbai-based technology firm, was reportedly taken into custody by Qatari state security on January 1. His family alleges that he has been kept in solitary confinement since his arrest, with little information available regarding the accusations against him.
Gupta’s father, Jagdish, recounted that his son was apprehended while dining at a restaurant in Doha. In an effort to secure his release, his family traveled to Qatar and remained there for a month but was granted only a single 30-minute visit during their stay.
His mother further claimed that Gupta was denied food for the first 48 hours of his detention and later moved to a restricted cell, where he has been held since. Reports suggest that he is permitted only a brief five-minute phone call every Wednesday.
Although Qatari authorities have yet to disclose the official reason behind his detention, speculation in the media suggests that his arrest may be linked to an ongoing investigation into data theft. Given Gupta’s senior position within Tech Mahindra, his family suspects that this could be the reason behind his imprisonment.
Gupta, who has been associated with Tech Mahindra for 12 years, took over as the regional head for Qatar and Kuwait in 2022. He has been residing in Qatar since 2013.
Diplomatic Efforts and Rising Concerns
The Indian embassy in Qatar has acknowledged the situation and is extending consular assistance to Gupta. However, no official statements have been issued by Indian authorities regarding the case.
The incident follows a similar high-profile case from 2022, in which eight former Indian Navy officers were detained in Qatar on espionage charges. They were initially sentenced to death but were later released in 2024 after diplomatic intervention.
Indian lawmaker Hemang Joshi has assured Gupta’s family that he will escalate the matter to officials in New Delhi. Despite these efforts, Qatari authorities have not provided any clarification regarding the arrest or whether Gupta will face formal charges.
If convicted under Qatari law, which integrates elements of Sharia-based legal principles, Gupta could be subject to imprisonment and financial penalties. His family continues to push for diplomatic intervention to secure his release.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Why was Amit Gupta arrested in Qatar?
While no official charges have been announced, reports suggest his arrest may be linked to an investigation involving data theft. - Has the Indian government taken any steps to help him?
The Indian embassy in Qatar is providing consular assistance, and lawmakers have pledged to raise the issue with authorities in New Delhi. - How long has Gupta been detained?
He has been in custody since January 1, with no formal charges filed against him. - What legal consequences could he face if convicted?
Under Qatari law, Gupta could face imprisonment and financial penalties, depending on the charges brought against him. - Is this case similar to the previous detentions of Indian nationals in Qatar?
Yes, this incident follows the detention of eight former Indian Navy officers in 2022, who were accused of espionage before being released in 2024.
