By Admin 
There was a heated debate in the Supreme Court regarding Indians trapped in the Russia-Ukraine war. During the hearing on the petition complaining about forced inclusion of Indians in the Russian Army, the Central Government said that due to its efforts, 139 people have returned. The Center accused the petitioners of trying to sensationalize the case. The court said that assistance to the people still trapped there and compensation for those killed should be considered.
What is the matter?
26 people had filed a petition saying that their family members had gone to Russia on tourist, student or other valid visas. The recruiting agents had promised them good employment. But after reaching there, their passports were confiscated and they were forcibly inducted into the Russian Army. They remained in contact with the family for some time, but now their whereabouts are not known. On April 10, the Supreme Court had sought response from the Center on the petition.
What did the Center tell?
On Friday, May 22, the Central Government informed the court that about 217 Indian citizens had joined the Russian Army. Of these, 49 have lost their lives and six have been confirmed missing. Due to the efforts of the Indian Embassy in Russia, 139 people were freed from their military contracts. Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati also said that out of the 26 people for whom the petition has been filed, 14 have died. There is no clear information about 11, while 1 is in jail in Russia due to a criminal case.
Petitioner’s objection
The counsel appearing for the petitioners raised questions on the process of bringing back the mortal remains of deceased Indian citizens. He claimed that some bodies were found in extremely mutilated condition. Due to this their families had to go through huge mental trauma. Additional Solicitor General Bhati expressed strong objection to this argument and said that sensation is being created on this sensitive issue. This is a complex humanitarian and diplomatic situation.
What did the court say?
On behalf of the Central Government, the court was assured that the Ministry of External Affairs is continuously making efforts at diplomatic and humanitarian level to help the affected families. The bench headed by Chief Justice Surya Kant said that the government should consider giving compensation or other legal benefits to the affected people and their families within the ambit of law. The next hearing of the case will be in July.
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