New Delhi, Feb 26 (IANS) The Ministry of External Affairs reiterated its commitment to address cases of Indian nationals serving in the Russian army seeking early discharge. The ministry responded to inaccurate reports in the media regarding Indians seeking help for discharge. It stated that all relevant cases are being actively pursued with Russian authorities for resolution.
The ministry affirmed, “We remain committed, as a matter of top priority, to actively pursuing with the Russian authorities all the relevant cases of Indian nationals for an early discharge from the Russian army.” It further stated that cases brought to the attention of the Indian Embassy in Moscow have been strongly taken up with Russian authorities, and those brought to the Ministry’s attention have been addressed with the Russian Embassy in New Delhi. Consequently, several Indians have already been discharged.
Last week, spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal acknowledged the ministry’s awareness of some Indians being recruited by agents who deceived them into joining the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The ministry urged the Indian community to avoid involvement in the conflict and exercise caution. Reports indicate the unfortunate death of 23-year-old Hemil Ashvinbhai Mangukiya from Gujarat in a Ukrainian air strike on February 21, although Indian officials are yet to confirm his killing.
The ministry’s statement follows recent reports of Indian youths being misled by agents who sent them to Russia under false pretenses of security guard jobs, only to be deployed in war-affected Ukraine-Russia regions. As investigations continue and efforts are made to resolve these cases, the Ministry of External Affairs continues to monitor the situation closely and work towards ensuring the welfare and safety of Indian nationals abroad. It reminds all citizens to be wary of exploitative recruitment practices and prioritize their safety above all else.
–IANS
mi/dan
