Indian Man Dies in Russia
Indian Man Allegedly Sent by Russian Army to Fight in Ukraine Dies
Chandigarh: A 22-year-old man from Haryana, who was allegedly sent to the frontline by the Russian Army to fight against Ukrainian forces, has died, his family claimed on Monday. The Indian embassy in Moscow confirmed the death of Ravi Moun, who hailed from Matour village in Haryana’s Kaithal district, according to his brother, Ajay Moun.
Ravi Moun traveled to Russia on January 13 after being “hired” for a transportation job, but his brother claimed that he was subsequently inducted into the Russian military. Ajay Moun wrote to the embassy on July 21 seeking information about his brother’s whereabouts. “The embassy told us that he has died,” he said.
The family reported that the embassy requested a DNA test report for the identification of the body. “Ravi went to Russia on January 13. An agent sent him to Russia for a transportation job. However, he was inducted into the Russian Army,” Ajay Moun reiterated.
This claim comes shortly after Russia agreed to India’s demand for the early release and return of Indian nationals who had been inducted into the Russian military. Ajay Moun alleged that the Russian Army gave his brother an ultimatum: fight against Ukrainian forces or face a 10-year jail sentence. Ravi Moun received training to dig trenches and was later sent to the frontline, according to his brother.
“We remained in touch with him until March 12, and he was quite upset,” Ajay Moun recounted. The Indian embassy, in response to Ajay Moun’s inquiry, stated, “The embassy had requested the concerned Russian authorities for confirmation of his death and transportation of his mortal remains as requested by you. The Russian side has confirmed his death. However, to identify the body, they need a DNA test from his close relatives.”
Ajay Moun also appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to assist in bringing his brother’s mortal remains back to India. “We do not have enough money to bring back his body,” he told reporters. The family had sold off a one-acre plot of land and spent Rs 11.50 lakh to send Ravi to Russia, he said.
Earlier this month, Russia had agreed to India’s request for the early release and return of Indian nationals working in the Russian military as support staff, following Prime Minister Modi’s discussion with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Russia promised the early discharge of all Indian nationals from its military.
Last month, the Ministry of External Affairs expressed that the issue of Indian nationals serving in the Russian Army was a matter of “utmost concern” and demanded action from Moscow. The ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, which erupted in February 2022, has seen significant international attention and concern, with many nations navigating the complexities of their citizens’ involvement.
In conclusion, the tragic death of Ravi Moun underscores the perilous circumstances that can arise when individuals are caught in the midst of international conflicts. As the family seeks to repatriate his remains, their plight highlights the need for robust mechanisms to protect and assist citizens abroad. The Indian government’s response and continued diplomatic efforts will be crucial in addressing such issues and providing the necessary support to affected families.
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