External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar announced on Friday that the Indian government is actively seeking the release of 69 Indian nationals currently serving in the Russian army. The Minister highlighted growing evidence that many of these individuals were misled into joining the Russian forces.
Addressing questions in the Lok Sabha, Jaishankar revealed that the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has initiated criminal proceedings against 19 individuals and entities involved in this case, with evidence pointing to 10 human traffickers. To date, four individuals have been arrested—two on April 24 and two more on May 7.
“We should not jump the gun and assume the Russians are not serious about this matter. Our primary goal is to secure the release of these 69 individuals. It is crucial that Indian citizens are not employed in foreign armed forces,” Jaishankar stated during the Question Hour.
The issue was brought to light by AIMIM member Asaduddin Owaisi, who inquired about the actions taken against those deceiving youth into joining the Russian army and whether India might reconsider its purchase of discounted Russian oil if these concerns are not addressed.
The Minister detailed that, out of 91 cases of Indian nationals recruited into the Russian army, eight have died, 14 have been discharged or returned with the government’s assistance, and 69 remain in Russian custody. The remains of four deceased individuals have been returned to India, while DNA samples have been sent to Russia for the remaining two cases. In one instance, the family chose to have the body cremated in Russia.
Jaishankar clarified that while Russian authorities maintain that these Indians entered contracts voluntarily, the Indian government believes many were misled under false pretenses. This matter was also discussed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi with Russian President Vladimir Putin last month, resulting in assurances that any Indian nationals currently in the Russian military would be discharged.
Congress member Adoor Prakash highlighted that five youths from his constituency in Kerala had been recruited but were later released. Jaishankar assured that the Indian government is actively working to ensure their safety and expedite their return.
In response to queries about cyber trafficking, Jaishankar reported significant efforts to combat human trafficking involving Indian nationals. So far, 650 individuals have been repatriated from Cambodia, 415 from Myanmar, and 548 from Laos. The government remains vigilant and committed to prosecuting agents involved in these crimes.
The Minister stressed the importance of coordinated efforts between state and central governments to address these issues and emphasized that the situation is being handled with utmost seriousness by all relevant authorities.
“We are committed to taking swift and decisive action against any breaches of law and ensuring the well-being of Indian citizens abroad,” Jaishankar concluded.
This ongoing issue underscores the need for greater vigilance against human trafficking and the protection of Indian nationals overseas.
