Amid the deaths of two Indian nationals serving as support staff with Russian military units, India issued a stern warning on Friday, urging its citizens to refrain from taking up such risky roles. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, emphasized that India’s focus is on securing the early discharge of all individuals working in similar positions.
Jaiswal, during his weekly media briefing, revealed that several Indians have been “deceived” into working with the Russian Army. He emphasized that New Delhi has taken up the matter with Moscow to expedite the discharge of these individuals. He cautioned Indian nationals against falling prey to agents offering support jobs with the Russian Army, highlighting the inherent dangers and risks to life associated with such roles.
These remarks by the MEA spokesperson come in the aftermath of the death of Mohammed Asfan, a 30-year-old Indian from Hyderabad, who was misled into joining Russia’s conflict in Ukraine. The Indian Embassy in Moscow confirmed Asfan’s demise without specifying the circumstances. Asfan’s death follows that of Hemal Ashwinbhai Mangukiya, a 23-year-old from Gujarat, who died in a Ukrainian air strike while serving as a security helper in the Donetsk region.
Jaiswal revealed that the Indian government is in contact with approximately 20 individuals, and efforts are underway to locate and assist them. He emphasized that several Indians have been lured into working with the Russian Army under false pretenses, leading to strong action against the agents responsible. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has taken action against a major human trafficking network, registering cases against several agents involved.
India continues to work towards the early release and repatriation of its nationals serving as support staff with the Russian Army. The government remains committed to ensuring their safe return home. Reports suggest that many Indian recruits have been coerced into fighting alongside Russian soldiers in border areas with Ukraine.
Two agents based in Russia, involved in trafficking Indians into the war zone, are under scrutiny by the CBI for confiscating passports and compelling individuals to engage in armed conflict. The CBI’s intervention led to the dismantling of this trafficking network, with ongoing efforts to bring perpetrators to justice.
