Relatives claim sons were lured to Russia via study visas and forced into combat, demand urgent repatriation from Delhi rally.
New Delhi, India — Tuesday November 4, 2025
Families of Indian youths who travelled to Russia on study or work visas and now allege they were forcibly enlisted into the Russian military for the Russia‑Ukraine War staged a two-hour protest at Jantar Mantar, New Delhi, demanding the safe return of their sons. Around 28 families from states including Haryana, Rajasthan, Punjab, Jammu & Kashmir, Gujarat, Telangana, and Maharashtra took part in the demonstration between 3 pm and 5 pm.
Claims and Context
Relatives say the young men initially traveled to Russia—some on study visas—for education or work, but were allegedly coerced by agents into military roles and sent into the war-zone. One of the deceased youths, Sonu from Madanheri village (Hisar, Haryana), died September 6 and his body was repatriated on October 29. Another, Karamchand (from Janedpur, Kaithal), is also dead and mourned by his family.
“The State of India must act now. These are our children, they went abroad to study—not to die in war,” said Sunil, brother of one of the missing.
Key Demands & Messages
- Protesters carried placards: “Putin, stop forcing our innocent Indian citizens into war” and “Modi Ji, save our children.”
- They demanded immediate intervention by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and diplomatic pressure on Russia to secure release and return of the youths.
- Organisers warned that unless substantial action occurs within ten days they will escalate their agitation.
Government & Diplomatic Angle
Families have written to the MEA, stating they lost contact with their sons soon after arrival in Russia and allege local agents deceived them into military deployment.
Indian diplomats reportedly briefed about the issue; however the scale and veracity of troop-recruitment claims remain under investigation.
Why This Matters
- If verified, the allegations raise serious concerns about human-trafficking, foreign combat enlistment, and the safety of Indian nationals abroad.
- The diplomatic fallout could complicate India-Russia ties: India must balance strategic relationships while responding to domestic pressure over its citizens’ protection.
- For the families, the protest underscores desperation: facing lack of clarity on the fate of their children, they are pushing for transparent and urgent governmental action.
Next Steps & What to Watch
- The MEA may issue statements, engage with Russian authorities, or provide updated lists of affected persons.
- Media or independent investigators might uncover agents/ networks that recruited the youths—a potential law-enforcement angle.
- The families’ ten-day ultimatum may trigger wider mobilisation if no concrete response arrives, increasing political pressure for a government action plan.
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