Shah Rukh Khan denies alleged role in Qatar navy veterans’ releases official statement amid controversy
Former Rajya Sabha MP Subramanian Swamy claimed that Shah Rukh Khan, the iconic actor, played a pivotal role in convincing the Qatar government to release eight Indian Navy veterans held on espionage charges. The dramatic twist unfolded on Tuesday, stirring a frenzy of speculation and disbelief.
Subramanian Swamy, known for his outspoken nature, asserted that Shah Rukh Khan’s intervention became crucial after diplomatic efforts by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and National Security Advisor (NSA) failed to sway the Sheikhs of Qatar.
Swamy’s claim suggested that Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally appealed to Khan, resulting in a hefty settlement that led to the freedom of the detained naval officers.
In response to the allegations, Shah Rukh Khan’s team swiftly issued a statement categorically denying any involvement.
The actor’s manager, Pooja Dadlani, emphasized that the assertions about Shah Rukh Khan’s role in the release were unfounded. The statement clarified that the successful resolution solely rested with Indian government officials, firmly discrediting Khan’s participation in the matter.
“Regarding the reports concerning Shah Rukh Khan’s purported role in the release of India’s naval officers from Qatar, the office of Mr. Shah Rukh Khan says that any such assertions of his involvement are unfounded,” the statement read.
Amid the controversy, Shah Rukh Khan, a well-known face not only in India but also internationally, was seen in Qatar attending the AFC Final as a special guest of honor. The actor’s interaction with Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani added fuel to the speculations.
As the saga unfolded, the Ministry of External Affairs issued a statement on a Monday, confirming the return of seven of the eight former Indian Navy personnel from Qatar.
These veterans had faced detention in August 2022, accused by Qatari authorities of spying on a submarine.
