The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) reported on Friday that the country continues to engage with Russia to ensure the release of remaining Indian citizens serving in the Russian army, noting that 139 Indians have been repatriated so far.
MEA representative Randhir Jaiswal stated at a weekly press briefing that the government consistently raises this issue with Russian authorities. He specified that efforts have resulted in the release of 139 citizens, and they are continuing to seek the release of the remaining couple of dozen Indians who are allegedly in the Russian army.
Furthermore, Jaiswal cautioned Indian citizens against falling victim to fraudulent job offers abroad, emphasizing that many such recruitment campaigns are conducted by unscrupulous individuals and agencies.
In this regard, the Supreme Court directed the MEA to appoint an authorized official to coordinate work with the families of Indians who died, were injured, or went missing after joining the Russian army during the current conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
The judicial bench also required the MEA to assist in conducting DNA matches between family members and the remains of those killed in the conflict and to help them file compensation claims with the Russian embassy in New Delhi. The court ruled that all necessary information must be provided to the affected families in their native languages.
The situation came to light after several Indians were allegedly recruited by agents with promises of high-paying jobs in Russia but were subsequently sent to serve in the Russian army amidst the ongoing conflict with Ukraine. India has repeatedly urged Moscow to facilitate the early discharge and repatriation of its citizens.
Previously, the Centre informed the Supreme Court that Russian authorities were utilizing foreign recruiters through attractive financial packages. These offers included a signing bonus of approximately $5,000 USD, a monthly salary of $2,500 USD, promises of Russian citizenship, social benefits, and compensation of about $168,000 USD in case of death.
