139 Indians freed from Russian Army, 24 remain: MEA warns against shady job offers

India is working to secure the release of approximately 24 Indian nationals currently serving in the Russian military, according to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). This effort comes as the Supreme Court continues to hear a petition from the families of 26 Indians who were lured into military service in Russia under false pretenses. The cases highlight a growing concern over the dangers faced by Indian citizens seeking employment or education abroad, particularly through dubious recruitment channels. Over the past year, more than 30 Indian nationals have lost their lives while serving in the Russian military on the frontline of the conflict with Ukraine. Additionally, reports indicate that more than 15 others have gone missing, raising alarm among officials and families. These individuals were initially recruited under the guise of legitimate work opportunities, often presented as high-paying jobs or student exchange programs. In reality, they were enticed by promises of generous financial incentives, including substantial signing bonuses, monthly salaries, and even citizenship rights. Many were assigned to support roles such as cooks and cleaners before being deployed to combat zones. The Supreme Court recently took up the case, which was initiated by the families of these individuals. During a routine media briefing, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed that the government has been actively engaging with Russian authorities to repatriate the remaining Indian nationals still serving in the military. He stated that 139 Indians have already been released, emphasizing the ongoing nature of the diplomatic efforts. “We continue to pursue the release of around two dozen Indian nationals who reportedly joined and still remain with the Russian Army,” Jaiswal said. In addition to the repatriation efforts, the court has ordered the MEA to appoint a dedicated official to coordinate with the families of those who have died, been injured, or gone missing. This includes facilitating DNA testing to identify the deceased and assisting families in claiming compensation from the Russian embassy in New Delhi. All communications must be conducted in the families' native languages to ensure clarity and support. The court also mandated that all necessary information be shared promptly with the affected parties. The issue gained attention after multiple Indian nationals were found to have been recruited through unscrupulous means. According to government filings, Russian authorities have used enticing financial packages to attract foreign recruits, offering a signing bonus of around USD 5,000, a monthly salary of $2,500, and additional benefits such as citizenship and posthumous compensation. These tactics have drawn criticism from Indian officials, who have repeatedly called on Moscow to expedite the repatriation process and provide transparency regarding the fate of the missing individuals. The MEA has issued warnings to Indian citizens about the risks associated with overseas job offers, urging vigilance against deceptive recruitment practices. Jaiswal emphasized the need for caution, stating, “We would like to caution our people against job offers that are fraught with risk and made by unscrupulous individuals and agencies.” The ministry has also expressed concern over the broader implications of such recruitment activities, highlighting the potential for exploitation and the loss of life in conflicts involving third-party forces.