In interviews with ANI upon their arrival in Delh
i, the former naval officers heaped praise on PM Modi, attributing their freedom to his personal intervention and sustained diplomatic initiatives.
Expressing relief and gratitude, one of the released veterans acknowledged PM Modi's crucial role in securing their release, stating, "I feel relieved and delighted to finally be back home safe and sound. I wish to thank Prime Minister Modi as this wouldn't have been possible had it not been for his personal intervention to secure our release."
Another released naval officer emphasized the pivotal role of PM Modi, stating, "Without the intervention of PM Modi, we would not have walked free. We wouldn't be standing before you today had it not been for his untiring efforts and interventions at the highest levels to get us freedom."
Echoing similar sentiments, another freed navy veteran praised the Centre's intervention, remarking, "We, as well as our anxious family members back home, had been waiting for this day for a long time. It all worked out because of PM Modi and his personal intervention in the matter."
Further highlighting PM Modi's efforts, another former Navy officer expressed gratitude, stating, "We are very happy to be back and it wouldn't have been possible had the honourable Prime Minister not taken personal interest in the matter."
The released veterans also acknowledged the role of Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani in facilitating their release, emphasizing the significance of the personal equations shared between PM Modi and the Qatari leader.
After enduring nearly 18 months of captivity, the veterans expressed immense relief and thanked both PM Modi and the Emir of Qatar for their joint efforts in ensuring their safe return to India.