New Delhi: Amit Gupta, the region head of Qatar and Kuwait for Tech Mahindra, has been detained in Doha by the Qatari State Security since January 1, 2025, on charges of possible data theft, according to his family. The Indian Embassy in Doha is providing all possible assistance to Gupta, confirmed sources on Saturday, March 22, 2025.
Originally hailing from Vadodara, Gujarat, Gupta moved to Qatar in 2013 as part of Tech Mahindra's expanding operations in the Middle East. According to his LinkedIn profile, he was appointed as the region head in April 2022 and has been instrumental in leading the firm’s business in the region.
This incident marks the second instance since 2022 where Indian nationals have faced serious charges in Qatar. In August 2022, eight former Indian Navy personnel were detained on charges of espionage, leading to a lengthy legal battle that saw some receive death sentences before eventual reprieve.
Sources indicate that the Indian mission in Qatar is in regular communication with Gupta’s family, attorney, and the Qatari authorities. "Our embassy continues to provide all possible assistance in the matter and is closely following the case," said a person familiar with the situation, who preferred to remain anonymous.
Pushpa Gupta, Amit's mother, stated that he was held for 48 hours without food or water immediately following his detention and has now been confined to a room for over three months. She alleged, "Amit was detained on January 1 and has been locked up for nearly three months now. The reason for his detention remains unclear." Gupta’s family claims he is innocent and has been falsely accused of any wrongdoing.
Gupta’s father, Jagdish Gupta, has reached out to Anand Mahindra, chairman of the Mahindra Group, seeking assistance. Meanwhile, Gupta's mother has met with Vadodara's Member of Parliament, Hemang Joshi, who promised to help escalate the issue with the Indian government. The family is understandably worried as Gupta is reportedly allowed to make only a brief phone call every week, marking their only connection.
In a statement, Tech Mahindra said they are maintaining "close contact" with Gupta's family and providing necessary support. A spokesperson from the company emphasized, "We are actively coordinating with authorities in both countries and following the proper legal processes. The well-being of our colleague is our top priority."
The situation draws parallels to the previous case involving the eight former Navy officers, which has raised concerns regarding the treatment of Indian nationals facing legal issues abroad. Their case saw a series of back-and-forth judgments, culminating in a pardon from the Qatari Amir in February 2024, after lengthy public and diplomatic efforts from the Indian government.
On social media, Pushpa Gupta expressed her frustration over the lack of communication and transparency regarding her son's situation. She indicated that no "positive response" has been forthcoming regarding Gupta’s release from authorities, raising questions about the legal frameworks surrounding foreign nationals in Qatar.
With more than a decade of service at Tech Mahindra and a reputable career in the IT sector, the situation surrounding Gupta is increasingly concerning for both his family and colleagues, who continue to rally in support. Tech Mahindra, an important player in the IT services sector, holds particular concerns for the safety and welfare of its employees amidst ongoing international relations complexities.
The Indian government and Tech Mahindra are both now faced with the challenge of navigating this complex case, which not only affects Gupta but also reflects on broader issues of diplomatic relationships and the safety of expatriates working abroad.
As this case continues to unfold, many are left wondering what the future holds for Amit Gupta and how the Indian government will intervene to secure his release from the Qatari authorities.
