Ten Indians Confirmed Dead in Ukraine Conflict, Supreme Court Hears Families’ Pleas

The Indian government has disclosed that out of 26 citizens whose families petitioned the Supreme Court for their return from Russia, ten have lost their lives while participating in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This revelation, reported by Live Law, highlights the harrowing reality faced by Indian nationals who have reportedly enlisted in the Russian military amidst the war.

According to the Centre, a majority of these individuals voluntarily joined the Russian forces. Earlier, in December, the government had informed Parliament that among the estimated 206 Indian nationals believed to have been recruited into the Russian military, 26 had been killed and seven were unaccounted for. Minister of State Kirti Vardhan Singh confirmed these figures, underscoring the tragic circumstances surrounding these families.

The Ministry of External Affairs has consistently issued warnings to citizens against enlisting in foreign militaries, particularly in light of the ongoing war in Ukraine that began in February 2022, marking one of Europe’s most significant military conflicts since World War II. Officials in New Delhi have expressed concerns that many individuals have fallen prey to unscrupulous agents, who often mislead them into roles such as cooks or support staff, rather than combat positions.

During a recent Supreme Court hearing, Chief Justice Surya Kant, along with Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul Pancholi, listened to the grievances of families seeking assistance in locating their loved ones. The petitioners alleged that the Ministry of External Affairs has been negligent in maintaining contact with them, leaving them in a state of uncertainty regarding the fate of their relatives who had traveled to Russia ostensibly for job opportunities.

This situation serves as a stark reminder of the risks involved for Indian nationals abroad, especially in conflict zones. The families of those affected are now left grappling with the painful reality of loss, while calling for greater governmental intervention and support in their time of need. The ongoing legal proceedings may provide a platform for these families to voice their concerns and seek justice for their loved ones caught in a war they never intended to join.

Source: scroll.in