The repatriation of Indian nationals serving in the Russian Army has hit a snag, with nearly 70 individuals still awaiting release due to unresolved contract issues. This development follows the recent death of at least nine Indians fighting on the frontlines in Ukraine, a situation that has intensified scrutiny and diplomatic efforts.
Contract Complications Hampering Repatriation
As of now, out of 91 Indians who were recruited into the Russian military, only 15 have been successfully repatriated to India. The remaining 68 are stuck in Russia, their release delayed primarily because the Russian Defence Ministry has not yet annulled their military contracts. This bureaucratic delay has raised concerns and frustration among the affected families and Indian authorities.
Sources familiar with the matter revealed on Saturday that the Russian Defence Ministry has yet to issue a formal decree to cancel these contracts. “The Russian Defence Ministry needs to take action to annul these contracts, but that has not happened yet,” an insider explained. Another source suggested that the delay might stem from concerns over how such cancellations could affect similar contracts involving nationals from other countries.
Diplomatic Efforts and Government Responses
The issue gained prominence after Prime Minister Narendra Modi discussed it with Russian President Vladimir Putin during their meeting in Moscow in July. Following this, the matter has been pursued vigorously through diplomatic channels in both New Delhi and Moscow.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar highlighted the problem in the Lok Sabha on August 9, stating, “The issue is that Russian authorities maintain these Indian nationals entered into contracts for military service. We are not necessarily subscribing to that view.” Jaishankar also emphasized that Modi received assurances from Putin that any Indian national serving in the Russian Army would be discharged and repatriated.
The Russian Embassy in New Delhi confirmed that recruitment of Indian nationals into the Russian armed forces had been halted as of April this year. They assured that efforts were underway to expedite the discharge of those who had “voluntarily contracted for military service.” The embassy also extended condolences to the families of those who had died and assured that all contractual obligations and compensation payments would be fully honored.
Allegations of Misleading Recruitment Practices
In addition to the contractual issues, there are allegations that many of the Indians recruited into the Russian military were misled or deceived by unscrupulous recruitment agents. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has launched a criminal investigation into the matter, registering a case against 19 individuals and entities involved in these recruitment activities. Several arrests have been made in connection with this probe. The situation remains fluid as diplomatic negotiations continue and the Indian government works to resolve the contractual hurdles preventing the full repatriation of its citizens. The ongoing issue underscores the complex interplay of international diplomacy, military contracts, and the challenges faced by individuals caught in such high-stakes situations.
