Kalimpong Ex-Serviceman's Plea for Return Acknowledged by Putin's Office

The office of Russian President Vladimir Putin has reportedly responded to a communication from a friend of Urgen Tamang, an ex-serviceman from Kalimpong, West Bengal. Tamang was allegedly coerced into joining the Russian Army after securing employment in Russia and has made appeals to return home. The email from Putin’s office, written in Russian, stated that the request has been forwarded to the country's defence ministry.

Urgen Tamang, in his mid-40s, travelled to Russia on January 18 seeking employment. During his stay, he allegedly informed his family that he was "forced to join duty with the second battalion of the 144th brigade of the Russian Army" and was deployed to the frontline in the ongoing Ukraine conflict. This information was shared by Rabi Pradhan, chairman of the Kalimpong Municipality’s board of administrators.

Communication with Russian Authorities

Pradhan sent an email addressed to Putin on Tamang’s behalf through the Russian Embassy in Delhi on July 21. He mentioned that all necessary documents regarding Urgen's appeal for repatriation were forwarded. "We are hopeful that things will gather steam after receiving this letter from Putin’s office," Pradhan told news sources.

A copy of the email sent by Putin’s office on July 23 is with Pradhan. He expressed optimism that Urgen's situation might improve following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent meeting with Putin. Pradhan also mentioned that he had spoken to Urgen on Wednesday evening.

Current Situation and Concerns

During their last conversation, Urgen informed Pradhan that he and others were relocated to another bunker 50 km away from their previous position. However, Pradhan noted that he has been unable to contact Urgen since that evening. "Urgen told me that he and some others were taken to another bunker 50 km away from their earlier location. However, I could not contact him since last evening," Pradhan said.

The situation remains tense as efforts continue to bring Urgen back safely to India. The response from Putin's office has provided a glimmer of hope for his family and friends who are anxiously awaiting further developments.

Efforts are ongoing to ensure Urgen's safe return, with local authorities and friends closely monitoring any updates from Russian officials. The involvement of high-level diplomatic channels underscores the seriousness of the situation and the commitment to resolving it.

The case highlights the complexities faced by individuals caught in geopolitical conflicts and underscores the importance of international cooperation in addressing such issues.