Another Indian Man, Forced To Fight For Russia, Is Killed

India-West News Desk

NEW DELHI – In a tragic turn of events, a 32-year-old man from Kerala, Binil T B, has died while fighting on the frontlines of the Russia-Ukraine war. His 27-year-old relative, Jain T K, has sustained serious injuries.

The family of Binil initially received a message stating that both men had been injured in a drone attack, but all communication with them ceased shortly afterward. Binil’s wife, Joicy, later contacted the Indian Embassy in Moscow, which verbally confirmed his death. Embassy officials stated that the information was relayed to them by the Russian Army.

Binil and Jain were part of a group of young men from Kerala who traveled to Russia in April, seeking employment in non-combat military support roles such as electricians, cooks, plumbers, and drivers. However, upon arrival, they were coerced into surrendering their Indian passports, obtaining permanent residency in Russia, and were conscripted into the Russian army.

Reports indicate that Binil had been attempting to return to India since September. Speaking to The Indian Express, he revealed the harrowing conditions they endured, describing their exhaustion both mentally and physically. “We are now in a war zone in Russian-occupied Ukrainian territory. Our commander says the contract is for a year. We have begged local commanders for release, but they refuse,” he said.

The paper reported that Binil also shared his frustration over the lack of support, saying that pleas to the Indian Embassy in Moscow had yielded little help. Embassy officials reportedly told him that assistance could only be provided if they returned to Russian territory, which required approval from their military commanders. (with ANI input)

Also Read: Indians Can Soon Travel To Russia Without Tourist Visa