Supreme Court Orders MEA to Aid Families of Indians Who Died in Ukraine Conflict

In a significant ruling on Wednesday, the Supreme Court of India mandated the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to issue a public notice aimed at the families of Indians who lost their lives while serving in the Russian military during the ongoing war in Ukraine. The bench, composed of Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi, emphasized the need for New Delhi to assist these grieving families in their pursuit of compensation from Moscow.

The court’s directive follows a petition filed by the relatives of 26 Indians, who were reportedly recruited by the Russian military after initially traveling to the country in search of employment opportunities. These families allege that their loved ones were victims of trafficking and were misled into combat roles amidst the conflict.

The Supreme Court noted with concern that despite 51 reported deaths of Indian nationals in the war, only six families had come forward to claim compensation. The bench urged the MEA to formally record the compensation amounts that Russia has determined, as well as any sums that have been disbursed to the affected families. In an attempt to facilitate the claims process, the MEA has been reaching out to families individually to gather necessary documentation.

During the hearing, the MEA informed the court that since the onset of the war, a total of 267 Indians had enlisted in the Russian military. Out of this number, 139 individuals have since been discharged, while 51 have tragically lost their lives. The fate of the remaining 77 individuals remains uncertain, raising further concerns about their well-being and circumstances.

The issue highlights the complex dynamics of the Ukraine conflict, as well as the desperate measures some individuals take to seek a better life abroad. As the situation continues to unfold, it underscores the responsibility of the Indian government to protect its citizens, both at home and abroad, and ensure that justice is served for the families impacted by this tragic loss.

Source: scroll.in