Has Rajasthan MP Hanuman Beniwal Reached Out to PM Modi Over Missing Indian Citizens in Russia?
Synopsis
Rajasthan MP Hanuman Beniwal is advocating for the urgent repatriation of Indian citizens allegedly caught in military service in Russia. Their families are distressed over their loved ones' safety amidst the ongoing conflict, prompting calls for government intervention.
Key Takeaways
24 Indian youths are currently stranded in Russia.
They were misled by travel agents into military service.
Families are experiencing severe distress .
MP Beniwal is advocating for government intervention .
211 Indian citizens are involved, with 121 repatriated and 27 deceased.
Jaipur, Jan 28 (NationPress) Indian nationals hailing from Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Jammu have reportedly been fraudulently recruited into the Russian military after being misled by travel agents promising civilian job opportunities.
On Wednesday, the families of 24 of these Indian youths, currently stranded in Russia, gathered at the residence of Rashtriya Loktantrik Party (RLP) President and Nagaur Lok Sabha MP Hanuman Beniwal in Delhi.
The families expressed profound anguish and serious concerns regarding the safety and lives of their loved ones.
MP Beniwal stated that the families are experiencing severe mental distress due to the lack of updates about the status and well-being of these youths trapped in a conflict zone.
The Nagaur MP has formally addressed a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar, and Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh.
Referring to a response from the Ministry of External Affairs during the recent Winter session of Parliament, Beniwal noted that a total of 211 Indian citizens were involved in this situation.
Of these individuals, 121 have been repatriated, while 63 remain in service—some of whom are reportedly missing—and 27 Indian citizens have tragically lost their lives.
Beniwal highlighted that these statistics reveal the seriousness of the crisis.
He urged the Indian government to act swiftly, prioritizing the safety and return of the remaining Indian citizens, providing support to their families, and ensuring clear communication regarding the status of the missing youths.
Last December, RLP Chief Beniwal had called on the Centre to undertake diplomatic measures to ensure the safe return of Indian students from Russia.
While addressing the Lok Sabha during the Zero Hour, Beniwal drew EAM Jaishankar's attention to what he classified as a critical humanitarian issue.
He pointed out that these youths, including many from Rajasthan, had gone to Russia under study and work visas but were allegedly deceived by travel agents into military roles in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.
According to MP Beniwal, the families of these citizens have lost contact with the missing youths for the past three to four months.
Point of View
We stand with the families affected by this distressing situation. The plight of these Indian citizens, misled into conflict zones, underscores the need for governmental accountability and urgent action. Our commitment remains to report on these issues with integrity, ensuring the voices of the affected families are heard.
NationPress
9 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What has MP Hanuman Beniwal requested from the government?
MP Hanuman Beniwal has requested Prime Minister Modi and other officials to prioritize the safety and repatriation of Indian citizens missing in Russia.
How many Indian citizens are reported missing?
As per reports, 63 Indian citizens remain in service in Russia, some of whom are reportedly missing.
What are the concerns of the families?
Families are deeply concerned about the safety and well-being of their loved ones, having lost contact with them for several months.
What actions has the Indian government taken?
The Ministry of External Affairs has confirmed that 211 Indian citizens are involved in this issue, with efforts ongoing for their repatriation.
Why were these youths in Russia?
Many of these youths traveled to Russia on study and work visas but were allegedly misled into military roles.
