In response to recent media reports about Indian nationals allegedly being forced to fight at the Russian border, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has taken up the matter with the relevant Russian authorities. The situation involves the Russian Army recruiting over 100 Indians as security helpers over the past year. Some of these recruits have come forward with allegations of mistreatment.

According to a Russian defense official, these Indian recruits had their passports confiscated and were allegedly being compelled to fight alongside Russian forces, despite earlier assurances that they would not be sent to the war zone. The victims have shared harrowing accounts of their ordeal, and their pleas for help from the Indian Embassy in Moscow reportedly went unheard.

We are aware of Indian Nationals in Russia: Randhir Jaiswal

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated, “We are aware that a few Indian nationals have signed up for support jobs with the Russian army. The Indian Embassy has regularly taken up this matter with the relevant Russian authorities for their early discharge. We urge all our nationals to exercise due caution and stay away from this conflict.”

The situation has raised concerns among lawmakers, with AIMIM MP Asaduddin Owaisi flagging the issue and urging the Indian government to engage with Russian authorities to bring back the youth caught in the conflict. These youths hail from states such as Telangana, Karnataka, and Gujarat.

The MEA’s efforts to secure the early discharge of these nationals are crucial, given the escalating tensions in the region. As the conflict between Russia and Ukraine continues, Indian citizens must exercise caution and prioritize their safety.

Our government remains committed to ensuring the well-being of its citizens abroad and will continue to monitor the situation closely. The affected individuals have raised concerns, and the Indian Embassy in Moscow is actively addressing them.