Families in India Await News of Relatives Lured into Russia-Ukraine Conflict

In a heart-wrenching situation unfolding from the war-torn borders of Russia and Ukraine, families in India are living in agony as they await news of their loved ones who were allegedly misled into participating in the ongoing conflict. One such family is that of Manoj Singh Shekhawat, a 33-year-old cab driver from Jaipur, who sent a chilling audio message to his relatives on October 15, 2022. Within a brief 21 seconds, he urged them to consider him lost if they did not hear from him in three days.

Despite the dire nature of his message, which was received nearly ten months ago, Shekhawat’s family remains steadfast in their hope for his survival. Ajay Singh Rathore, a cousin of Shekhawat, remarked, “We hold on to the thought that perhaps they are keeping him busy in a location devoid of internet access.” This sentiment reflects a broader struggle faced by at least 26 Indian families who have sought intervention from the Supreme Court in their desperate bid to locate and bring back their missing relatives.

The grim reality of the situation stems from the ongoing military conflict between Russia and Ukraine, which erupted in February 2022. During this tumultuous period, numerous Indian citizens have reportedly been drawn into combat alongside Russian forces, often under the false promises of lucrative employment opportunities, propagated by local recruitment agents. It is important to note that under Indian law, it is illegal for citizens to engage in armed conflict for foreign nations.

Shekhawat was reportedly recruited from Jaipur by an agent who lured him with the prospect of a high-paying job abroad. As the situation escalated, many families like Shekhawat’s have felt helpless and anxious, prompting them to take legal action. In March, these families approached the Supreme Court, seeking a directive to the Indian government to locate their missing kin and facilitate their return from the perilous conflict zone.

In response to their pleas, the Supreme Court, on July 31, directed the Central government to intensify its efforts in tracing the missing individuals. The Ministry of External Affairs has been tasked with this crucial responsibility, yet the families continue to grapple with uncertainty and fear for the safety of their loved ones. The ongoing war and the lack of reliable communication exacerbate their distress, leaving them in a state of prolonged anguish.

Source: scroll.in