Over 200 Indians Recruited by Russian Agents
The Indian government has officially confirmed that more than 200 Indian citizens are believed to have been recruited into the Russian armed forces since 2022 to participate in the conflict in Ukraine. This revelation comes amidst ongoing concerns about the deceptive tactics used by Russian recruiting agents.
These individuals were often lured with false promises of legal employment, high salaries, accommodation, and official documents. Many traveled to Russia on student or visitor visas, only to be coerced into signing military contracts, often in Russian, and subsequently deployed to the front lines.
Casualties and Missing Persons
Tragically, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has reported that 26 Indian nationals have lost their lives in the conflict, and an additional 7 citizens are currently reported missing. The Indian government has been actively working to identify and repatriate the remains of the deceased. So far, the mortal remains of 10 Indian nationals have been repatriated to India, and two others have been cremated locally in Russia. To aid in identification, DNA samples from the family members of 18 Indians who are either dead or missing have been shared with Russian authorities.
Government Efforts for Repatriation and Warnings
New Delhi has undertaken significant diplomatic efforts to address the situation. Through concerted government actions, 119 Indian citizens have successfully been discharged from the Russian military and have returned home. Furthermore, negotiations are ongoing with Russian authorities to secure the early release and repatriation of approximately 50 more individuals.
The Indian government has repeatedly issued advisories, cautioning its citizens against joining the Russian military, describing such a course of action as 'fraught with danger' and a significant risk to life. The MEA has engaged with Russian counterparts at various levels, including interactions between leaders, ministers, and officials, to ensure the safety, well-being, and timely discharge of all Indian nationals involved. Reports indicate that a 'vast human trafficking network' involved in luring young people with job promises into the conflict has been dismantled. While the Russian defense ministry reportedly ceased recruiting Indians in April 2024, existing military contracts have complicated the release of some individuals.
5 Comments
Bella Ciao
26 dead and 7 missing is a huge number. The government needs to be more transparent about the full scale.
Comandante
While the advisories are important, one has to wonder if more proactive measures could have been taken earlier to prevent this widespread recruitment. It's a complex issue involving both individual choices and systemic vulnerabilities.
Mariposa
This whole situation reflects poorly on India's ability to protect its citizens abroad. Unacceptable.
Africa
These recruiters are despicable. They need to be punished severely for preying on the vulnerable.
ZmeeLove
Good to see the MEA's diplomatic efforts are yielding results, with 119 already discharged.