Srinagar: Kashmiri engineer Abdul Rafi Baba, who was arrested in Saudi Arabia two years ago, has been sentenced to 31 years in prison on charges of “cyber-related crimes linked to terror activities” and for “circulating objectionable videos on social media.”
Baba, a resident of Srinagar’s Soura area, was working at King Faisal University in the Hofuf region when he was arrested in early March 2022.
The Jammu and Kashmir Students’ Association stated that India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has responded to their appeal for intervention in Baba’s case. According to the association, the Indian Embassy in Riyadh confirmed that Baba, holding Passport No. S7725981, has been imprisoned in Dammam Intelligence Jail since March 1, 2022.
Initially, Baba was sentenced to 11 years in prison. However, following an appeal filed both by him and the Public Prosecution, the court increased the sentence to 31 years under relevant Saudi laws. His case is currently under review by the Supreme Court.
Under Secretary also confirmed that consular access has been granted multiple times, with visits conducted on May 3, 2021, September 6, 2022, February 20, 2023, September 5, 2023, and most recently on September 11, 2024.
During these visits, Baba informed officials that he remains in contact with his family in India, speaking with them once a week. He appears to be in good health and has not reported any issues related to food, shelter, or basic needs, under Secretary added.
The JKSA has urged the Ministry of External Affairs to explore all possible diplomatic avenues to ensure a fair trial and facilitate Baba’s repatriation. The Association has requested the Union External Affairs Minister to take up the issue with the Saudi authorities.
Expressing hope for swift action, the Association stated that the MEA must act promptly to bring Baba back home. Khuehami added that Baba’s father has only one wish—to see his son free before his time runs out. The family’s prolonged suffering has now reached a breaking point.
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