Indian Soldier Killed in Ukraine War, Family Appeals to Modi for Repatriation

The conflict in Ukraine, which has claimed the lives of thousands of soldiers, has now taken a tragic toll on another Indian family. Ravi Moun, a 22-year-old Indian national, is the fifth confirmed Indian casualty in the war. His family, devastated by the loss, has made a heartfelt appeal to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to facilitate the repatriation of his body.

Ravi's journey to the warfront began in January when he was recruited by a private agent who promised him a job in transportation. He traveled to Russia with the hope of securing stable employment. However, once there, his fate took a drastic turn. According to his brother Ajay, Ravi was given weapons training and coerced into joining the fighting against Ukraine. This shift from a job in transport to becoming a combatant was a cruel twist that ultimately led to his death.

Ajay recounted the family's ordeal, explaining how they lost contact with Ravi after he was sent to the frontline in March. Desperate for information, Ajay reached out to the Indian embassy in Moscow, only to receive the devastating news that his brother had died. The embassy requested DNA samples to confirm Ravi's identity, adding another layer of anguish to the family's plight.

Ravi's story is not an isolated incident. Hundreds of Indians have been recruited by Moscow to bolster its forces, lured by promises of non-combat roles only to find themselves on the battlefield. The Indian government has been actively working with Russian authorities to repatriate approximately 50 Indian nationals caught in the conflict. Despite these efforts, the process has been slow and fraught with challenges.

Prime Minister Modi recently met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow, where the issue of Indian citizens fighting in Ukraine was discussed. According to India's foreign ministry, Modi was given assurances by Putin regarding the repatriation of these individuals. However, the urgency of the situation is underscored by the increasing number of Indian casualties.

The high unemployment rate in India, despite its rapid economic growth, drives many to seek work abroad. This quest for employment often leads to vulnerable individuals being exploited and trafficked into dangerous situations. Several people in India have been arrested for trafficking citizens to fight for the Russian army, promising them safe and non-combatant roles that never materialize.

This tragic situation highlights the complex geopolitical and socio-economic factors at play. India, a long-standing ally of Russia, has refrained from condemning the invasion of Ukraine outright. During his meeting with Putin, Modi emphasized the need for peaceful dialogue, stating that "war cannot solve problems." 

As the Moun family grieves the loss of their son, they join the chorus of voices calling for the safe return of all Indian nationals involved in the conflict. Their appeal to Prime Minister Modi is a poignant reminder of the human cost of war and the urgent need for diplomatic intervention.