Ukraine/INDIA: A 22-year-old man from India's Haryana, Ravi Moun, died on the frontlines while serving in the Russian Army, his family has confirmed. Initially recruited for a transportation job, Moun was reportedly inducted into the military and sent to fight against Ukrainian forces. The Indian embassy in Moscow has confirmed his death and requested a DNA test for identification. Struggling financially, his family has sought help from Prime Minister Narendra Modi to bring his remains back to India. Following diplomatic pressure from India, Russia has promised to release Indian nationals from its military service.
Family Seeks PM Modi's Help
The Indian embassy in Moscow confirmed the death of Ravi Moun, a resident of Matour village in Haryana's Kaithal district, according to his brother Ajay Moun. Ravi had gone to Russia on January 13 for a transportation job but was instead conscripted into the military, his brother claimed.
Ajay Moun reached out to the embassy on July 21 for information on his brother's whereabouts. "The embassy informed us of his death," he said. The embassy also asked the family to provide a DNA test report for the identification of the body.
Forced to Fight
Ajay Moun alleged that the Russian Army gave his brother an ultimatum to either fight against Ukrainian forces or face a 10-year jail sentence. Ravi was trained to dig trenches and was later sent to the frontline. "We remained in touch with him until March 12, and he was quite upset," Ajay added.
Embassy Confirmation
According to the Indian embassy's response to Ajay's inquiry, "The embassy had requested the concerned Russian authorities for confirmation of his death and the transportation of his mortal remains as requested by you. The Russian side has confirmed his death. However, they require a DNA test from his close relatives for identification."
Financial Struggles and Diplomatic Efforts
Ajay Moun has also appealed to Prime Minister Modi to help bring his brother's body back to India. "We do not have enough money to bring back his body," he told reporters. The family had sold a one-acre piece of land and spent Rs 11.50 lakh to send Ravi to Russia.
Earlier this month, Russia agreed to India's demand to ensure the early release and return of Indian nationals working in the Russian military as support staff, following discussions between Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin. The Ministry of External Affairs has stated that the issue of Indian nationals serving in the Russian Army remains a matter of "utmost concern" and has demanded action from Moscow.
The Russia-Ukraine conflict, ongoing since February 2022, continues to impact lives globally.
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