Tribune News Network
Doha
The Embassy of India, in collaboration with the Indian Community Benevolent Forum (ICBF), organised an online seminar on September 10 to raise awareness about Qatar’s regulations on banned narcotics and the import of restricted psychoactive and psychotropic drugs. The event saw participation from Indian community members, leaders, media personnel, and other stakeholders from both Doha and India.
The seminar featured addresses by Ambassador of India to Qatar HE Vipul, First Secretary Eish Singhal, and ICBF President Shahnawaz Bawa.
In his remarks, Ambassador Vipul stressed the importance of understanding Qatar’s laws regarding restricted and prohibited medicines, particularly narcotics. He urged the Indian community to exercise caution and adhere strictly to the regulations when travelling to Qatar.
Eish Singhal shared case studies where Indians had faced legal repercussions, including imprisonment, for unknowingly carrying prohibited substances. In some cases, individuals were found carrying items handed to them by agents, which later turned out to contain restricted drugs.
Shahnawaz Bawa emphasised the role of civil society organisations, both in India and Qatar, in spreading awareness about Qatar’s strict laws on drug consumption and trafficking. He also highlighted the support provided by the Indian Embassy and ICBF to Indian prisoners, including legal counselling and emergency financial aid.
The seminar concluded with a reminder to all Indian travellers to familiarise themselves with Qatar’s regulations, which can be found on the Ministry of Public Health’s website.
