After Latest Death, India Seeks Release of Citizens In Russian Military Forces

India on Tuesday reiterated its demand for the release of all Indian nationals serving in the Russian military, following the death of another Indian citizen on the frontlines of the conflict in Ukraine. This latest casualty brings the total number of Indian fatalities in the war to 10.

The external affairs ministry confirmed that the deceased, identified as Binil Babu (31) from Kuttanellur in Kerala's Thrissur district, was killed during combat. Another Indian from Kerala, also serving with Russian forces, sustained injuries and is receiving treatment at a Moscow hospital.

The ministry spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, expressed condolences to the family of the deceased and stated, "We have learnt of the unfortunate death of an Indian national from Kerala who was apparently recruited to serve in the Russian Army. Another Indian from Kerala has been injured and is undergoing medical care."

India has consistently pressed Russia for the discharge of all Indians recruited into its military, many of whom were engaged as support staff, such as cooks and helpers. Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally raised the issue with Russian President Vladimir Putin during two meetings last year.

The matter was "strongly taken up" with Russian authorities in Moscow and the Russian embassy in New Delhi, Jaiswal noted. He added, "We have reiterated our demand for the early discharge of the remaining Indian nationals and are working with the Russian authorities for the transportation of the mortal remains to India."

Indian officials reported last October that 85 Indians had been discharged from Russian military service, while efforts were underway to secure the release of another 20. However, delays have persisted as Russia's defence ministry has not annulled all service contracts.

The Russian embassy in New Delhi previously stated that the recruitment of Indians into its armed forces ceased in April 2024. Efforts are ongoing to ensure the early release of those who had voluntarily signed contracts for military service.

India has alleged that many of its citizens were misled or duped into joining the Russian military by fraudulent recruitment agents. Last year, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) filed a case against 19 individuals and entities for their involvement in such schemes, leading to multiple arrests.

The external affairs ministry emphasized that the Indian embassy in Moscow remains in touch with the families of the affected individuals and is providing all necessary support. It pledged continued efforts to ensure the safe repatriation of the injured and the return of the mortal remains.