Ukraine, Sep.10,2025:Young men, enticed by promises of lucrative jobs or European travel, crossed into Russia on tourist visas. In multiple cases, they were coerced into signing incomprehensible contracts and thrust into military service-
A Grim Reality
Indians coerced into war—a terrifying phrase, yet a grim reality facing many young men from Haryana, Punjab, and beyond. Families report relatives being duped into Russian borders and forced to serve on frontlines in Ukraine, prompting urgent appeals for help.
How Youth from Haryana & Punjab Got Trapped
Young men, enticed by promises of lucrative jobs or European travel, crossed into Russia on tourist visas. In multiple cases, they were coerced into signing incomprehensible contracts and thrust into military service. One such individual from Punjab’s Doaba region, now back in India with a fractured jaw, recounts being forced into combat after landing.
First-hand Testimonies and Video Appeals
Video messages from the frontlines give voice to anguish:
- Gurpreet Singh (Punjab) pleaded to the Indian government for rescue after being duped into enlistment.
- Harsh Kumar (Haryana) described being deployed on the battlefield with no training and in tears said, “We don’t even know how to hold a gun.”
Scams, Trafficking & Broken Promises
Investigations have uncovered sprawling trafficking networks:
- The CBI arrested four people reportedly responsible for luring around 35 Indian youths.
- The Wire estimates 91 Indians forced into Russian arms, with eight confirmed dead.
- TIME magazine traced deceptive tactics, including social media job promises, coerced contracts, and passport confiscation.
- Reuters confirms Moscow agreed to begin discharging some misled Indian recruits after diplomatic talks.
Casualties, Returns & the Indian Government’s Response
Tragically, several recruits have died:
- Hemil Mangukiya, a 23-year-old from Gujarat, died in a Ukrainian missile strike after being misled.
- India confirmed at least 126 Indians lured into military roles; 12 confirmed dead.
- India has urged Russia for repatriation and is coordinating with authorities to bring victims home.
In some positive outcomes:
- 45 Indian nationals were discharged from the Russian army and returned to India.
Legal Fallout and Investigation
The revelations have spurred action:
- The CBI continues investigations into trafficking networks that recruited Indians under false pretenses.
- Families report paying huge sums upfront only to be drafted into combat roles.
Implications for Migration and Security
The crisis highlights vulnerabilities in global mobility:
- Economic desperation is fueling risky migration schemes.
- Foreign policy under strain, with India balancing neutrality and protective response.
- More robust safeguards are needed against overseas fraud and exploitation.
Crisis Beyond Borders
The phrase Indians coerced into war is no exaggeration; it represents shattered aspirations, broken promises, and broken lives. From Punjab villages to Russian borderlines, these stories cry out for justice, diplomacy, and proactive protection. No one should be forced into a war not their own.
