Death Of Indian National Binil Babu In Russia: MEA Responds - What's The Case All About?

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Monday responded to the death of an Indian national in Russia and offered condolences.

The official spokesperson of the MEA said, "We have learnt of the unfortunate death of an Indian national from Kerala who had apparently been recruited to serve in the Russian Army. Another Indian national from Kerala, who was similarly recruited has been injured and is receiving treatment in a hospital in Moscow.

"We offer our deepest condolences to the family of the deceased. Our Embassy in Moscow is in touch with the families and all possible assistance is being rendered We are working with the Russian authorities for early transportation of the mortal remains to India. We have also sought the early discharge and repatriation to India of the injured person," the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement on Monday.

This matter has been strongly taken up with the Russian authorities in Moscow and also with the Russian Embassy in New Delhi today.

The Ministry has also reiterated its demand for the early discharge of the remaining Indian nationals.

The Source Of The Conflict

Earlier, the Indian side had demanded a "verified stop" to any further recruitment of Indian nationals by the Russian Army.

Additionally, there have been reports stating that up to 200 Indian nationals had been recruited by the Russian military to serve as support staff, such as cooks and helpers since last year.

In a previous statement the ministry had said that India has demanded a verified stop to recruitment of Indian nationals and "Such activities would not be in consonance with our partnership," the statement said.