New Delhi, Oct 26 (IANS): In the wake of news that eight former Indian Navy personnel, who were in custody in Qatar since last year, have been awarded the death sentence, veteran leader Kapil Sibal on Thursday sought the intervention of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying the government must explore all options for their release.

In a post on X, Sibal, who is also an eminent lawyer, said, "Our Vishwa Guru (PM Modi) must intervene. Eight Indian ex-Navy officers given thedeath penalty by a Qatar court.

"Held accountable on charges which have not been even made public by Qatari authorities. Our government must explore all options for their release," the former Congress leader said.

The eight persons were arrested last year after being charged with spying for Israel by Qatar authorities.

The men also include decorated officers who once commanded major Indian warships, were working for Dahra Global Technologies and Consultancy Services, a private firm that provided training and related services to Qatar's armed forces.

Their bail pleas were rejected numerous times and their detention extended by Qatari authorities. On Thursday, the Court of First Instance of Qatar passed a judgement.

Earlier in the day, the Indian government on Thursday expressed shock over the news and said it will contest it.