55 Indians still in Russian army: New Delhi presses Moscow at key meet

India continues efforts to secure the return of nationals serving in the Russian army (File photo)

NEW DELHI: Around 140 Indian nationals recruited into the Russian army have been discharged, while India is seeking information on the whereabouts of 55 others reportedly serving in the Russian armed forces, according to the details from India-Russia consultative committee meeting as cited by news agency ANI.New Delhi has engaged with Russian authorities for the early discharge of all such individuals."The government of India engaged with Russian authorities, including at the highest levels, for the early discharge of all such individuals. So far, around 140 Indian nationals have been discharged. Indian side is in touch with Russian authorities for the whereabouts of 55 Indian nationals who are reportedly in the Russian Army.

Strong action being taken by the Indian law enforcement authorities against unscrupulous agents," the update from the meeting said.

The latest figures are broadly in line with those shared by foreign secretary Vikram Misri last month. At the time, Misri said 139 of the 227 Indian nationals recruited into the Russian armed forces had been discharged, while 51 had died.

Misri said the issue had been raised with Russia “at various levels on various occasions”.

“At last count, we had information about 227 Indian nationals who had been recruited into the Russian army,” Misri had said. “Out of that, we have information that 139 of our nationals have been discharged from the army. And unfortunately, of course, we have information also about 51 people who have perished so far.”Misri had said India remained in constant discussions with Moscow to secure the early discharge and repatriation of those still serving.