New Delhi, In a startling development, reports have emerged that Indian workers have been forcibly engaged to fight alongside Russian forces in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. This revelation has sparked concern and calls for urgent government intervention to ensure the safety and repatriation of the affected individuals.
According to Kashmir Media Service, The Hindu, an Indian daily, reported that at least three Indians were duped into joining Russian forces under the false pretense of employment as “army security helpers.” An agent responsible for their deployment has allegedly stated that around 18 Indians have been sent to various locations along the Russia-Ukraine border, with one reported fatality resulting from combat involvement. This marks the first known instance of Indian citizens participating in the conflict on the Russian side.
The family of one deceased individual from Hyderabad has reached out to Asaduddin Owaisi, a member of parliament and leader of the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), seeking help. Owaisi has since contacted S. Jaishankar, the Indian External Affairs Minister, and the Indian Embassy in Moscow, advocating for the government’s assistance in returning these individuals to India. Owaisi reiterated his plea through a social media post, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
Victims have shared distressing accounts of their experiences, including a young man from Uttar Pradesh who recounted his arrival in Russia in November 2023, subsequent arms and ammunition training, and forced deployment to the front lines near Rostov-on-Don by January. Contrary to initial assurances, they were coerced into combat roles at gunpoint.
The individuals, who were misled into signing contracts for non-combatant roles, have faced significant challenges in seeking help. Despite attempts to contact the Indian Embassy in Moscow, their pleas have reportedly been ignored, leaving them stranded without proper documentation, financial resources, or governmental support.
The agent who facilitated their arrival in Russia warned of the grave risks these men face if prompt action is not taken by the Indian government to secure their safety and return. The situation highlights the vulnerability of workers abroad and the critical need for effective diplomatic intervention to protect Indian nationals caught in foreign conflicts.