Doha, Qatar: The Embassy of India, in collaboration with the Indian Community Benevolent Forum (ICBF), organized an online seminar on September 10, 2024, to raise awareness about Qatar’s rules and regulations regarding banned narcotics and the import of restricted psychoactive and psychotropic substances. The event was attended by Indian community members, leaders, media personnel, and other stakeholders from both Doha and India.

Ambassador of India to Qatar, Mr. Vipul, along with First Secretary Mr. Eish Singhal and ICBF President Mr. Shahnawaz Bawa, addressed the gathering. Ambassador Vipul emphasized the importance of following Qatar’s regulations on restricted medicines and the strict prohibition of narcotic substances, urging Indian nationals to exercise caution when travelling to the country.

Mr. Eish Singhal shared real-life case studies of Indians facing imprisonment for carrying narcotics or restricted drugs, highlighting instances where individuals unknowingly brought prohibited items handed to them by agents.

ICBF President Mr. Shahnawaz Bawa stressed the need for civil society organizations in both Qatar and India to actively raise awareness about these laws. He also discussed the support offered by the Embassy and ICBF to Indian prisoners in Qatar, including legal aid and emergency financial assistance.

The seminar concluded with a reminder for all Indians to adhere to Qatar’s rules and regulations, which are available on the Ministry of Public Health’s website.