An ex soldier from Argyll will learn later next month if he is to be released on bail from an Indian jail.
A hearing took place at the High Court in Madurai for Billy Irving of Connel, near Oban, and five other veterans yesterday.
The men were jailed for five years earlier this year after being accused of carrying weapons into India illegally.
They are hoping to be released on bail while they appeal their convictions.
Conditions in the prison at Chennai have been described as “horrendous” by their families.
Speaking after hearing from the legal team about yesterday’s hearing, Yvonne MacHugh, fiancee of Mr Irving, said: “The public prosecutor didn’t show up this morning. The judge sent for him and luckily he was in a room next door.
“They got him in for the afternoon and they heard it all. They are going to make a decision about bail on October 19 and the appeal will start then too.
“I feel it is sad that I feel really happy about this, because it actually went ahead. It is the first time in eight months something actually happened. It feels like a small victory. They are still in prison but it is one step closer.
“We still need the government to push for this because when the decision is made on October 19 we need them to get out.”
The men were arrested on the anti-piracy ship MV Seaman Guard Ohio on October 12, 2013.
They were working for the American firm AdvanFort providing anti-piracy protection in the Indian Ocean when their ship was detained.
A spokesman for the FCO said: “We cannot interfere with India’s independent legal system, just as other countries cannot interfere with ours, but we will continue efforts to make sure this case is resolved swiftly.”
