202 Indians recruited into Russian army: Centre confirms 26 deaths, 50 still awaiting discharge
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New Delhi: The Union government informed the Rajya Sabha on Thursday that 202 Indian nationals have been recruited into the Russian armed forces since 2022. Of these, 26 have lost their lives in the ongoing conflict, while 50 individuals are still awaiting discharge.
The disclosure came from Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh in response to questions raised by Trinamool Congress MP Saket Gokhale and Congress MP Randeep Singh Surjewala regarding the repatriation of Indians allegedly forced or illegally recruited for the Russia-Ukraine war.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), concerted diplomatic efforts have facilitated the early discharge of 119 Indian nationals so far. However, the fate of several others remains a primary concern, with seven Indians officially reported as missing based on information shared by Russian authorities. The Minister assured Parliament that the government remains in continuous engagement with Moscow to ensure the safety, well-being, and early return of the 50 nationals still in service.
The government provided grim details regarding the casualties. Of the 26 confirmed deaths, the mortal remains of 10 Indian nationals have been successfully repatriated to India. Two others were cremated locally in Russia with assistance from the Indian Mission, following consent-based decisions by their families.
To address the difficult process of identification, the Ministry stated that DNA samples from the family members of 18 Indians, reported either dead or missing, have been shared with Russian authorities. This measure aims to establish the identity of deceased nationals whose remains have not yet been verified.
The Indian Embassy in Russia continues to play a critical role in the repatriation process, providing discharged nationals with travel documents, air tickets, and logistical support. The government emphasised that the issue has been raised at the highest diplomatic levels, including interactions between leaders and senior ministers of both nations. The Minister affirmed that these efforts will persist until all remaining Indians are discharged and brought home safely.
(Inputs from IANS)