India has strongly demanded all Indian nationals from Russia amid war after a Kerala native recently lost his life. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has confirmed the death of Binil TB, a native of Kerala, who was working with the Russian Military Support Service and lost his life on the Ukrainian war front.
Another Indian, Jain TK, also from Kerala, was injured and is being treated in Moscow. According to reports, both men were recruited after reaching Russia, where their Indian passports were seized before they were sent to the conflict zone.
MEA responds strongly after Indian nationals continue to suffer in Russia, approach Indian embassy
This has drawn a very sharp response from the Indian government. The MEA has taken up the issue with the Russian authorities in Moscow and the Russian Embassy in New Delhi. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal again emphasized India’s demand for the early repatriation of Indian nationals still serving in the Russian armed forces.
“We have strongly raised this matter with the Russian authorities and emphasized our demand for the early discharge of the remaining Indians. The Embassy in Moscow is working closely with the affected families to provide all possible assistance,” Jaiswal said.
Binil, 32 years old, an ITI-trained electrician from Thrissur, and Jain, 27 years old, a mechanical diploma holder, went to Russia in April 2024 to seek employment as electricians and plumbers. However, their plans took a dire turn when they were recruited into the Russian military.
The MEA has condoled with the family of Binil and is making arrangements for transporting his mortal remains to India. The government has also assured that all efforts are being made to obtain the release and safe return of injured individuals and others still in service.
Over eight Indian nationals have reportedly died in the Russian armed forces since August 2024. According to reports, 63 Indians currently enlisted are reportedly seeking repatriation. The MEA has not specified any details of the recruitment process but has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring their safety and return.
Also, see: Azerbaijan blames Russia for deadly plane crash, Russia responds