217 Indians Joined Russian Forces, 49 Died in Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Centre to SC

The Centre on Friday informed the Supreme Court that 217 Indian nationals had reportedly joined the Russian armed forces during the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict , with 49 of them losing their lives in the war so far.

In a status report filed before the apex court, the Centre said most of the Indians had travelled to Russia after being allegedly lured by promises of lucrative jobs, high salaries, Russian citizenship and social benefits . According to the government, recruits were offered an upfront bonus of around USD 5,000 and a monthly salary of nearly USD 2,500.

The matter came up before a bench headed by Chief Justice Surya Kant , which was hearing a plea seeking the safe repatriation of 26 Indians allegedly detained in Russia and forced into combat roles.

The Centre said sustained diplomatic engagement with the Russian government had resulted in the release of 139 Indian nationals from military contracts. However, six Indians remain officially missing, while the status of 23 others is still unknown and under active follow-up by the Indian Embassy in Moscow.

Among the 26 individuals referred to in the plea, 14 cases relate to reported deaths, while 11 persons have been declared “missing in action” or remain out of contact with their families. One individual is serving an eight-year prison sentence in Russia on molestation charges.

The government said several of those recruited belonged to different parts of India and had reached Russia through agents and illegal recruitment networks operating under the guise of overseas employment opportunities.

The Centre added that India has repeatedly issued advisories since February 2024 warning citizens against involvement in the conflict and has intensified action against trafficking and illegal recruitment rackets .