How is the Indian embassy aiding the repatriation of a Hyderabad man coerced into the Russian Army?
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Synopsis
The Indian embassy in Moscow has stepped in to assist Mohammed Ahmed, a Hyderabad resident, who was forced to join the Russian Army under false pretenses. This intervention, prompted by local MP Asaduddin Owaisi, aims to secure Ahmed's swift discharge and safe return to India amidst ongoing conflict. A story of resilience and urgent diplomatic efforts unfolds.
Key Takeaways
- The Indian embassy is working diligently to aid nationals caught in international conflicts.
- Diplomatic actions can lead to the safe repatriation of citizens.
- Fraudulent job offers can have severe consequences.
- Public officials play a crucial role in advocating for citizens' rights.
- Awareness is key to avoiding such dangerous situations when seeking employment abroad.
Hyderabad, Oct 17 (NationPress) The Indian embassy in Moscow has formally appealed to the Putin government to facilitate the immediate discharge of Mohammed Ahmed, a resident of Hyderabad, from the Russian Army and ensure his safe return to India.
This intervention came after AIMIM president and Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi raised the matter with the Foreign Secretary.
Ahmed, aged 37, hailing from Khairatabad, was coerced into enlisting in the Russian Army amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine after falling victim to a fraudulent job agent.
His family sought assistance from Owaisi following a harrowing video message Ahmed sent from Russia.
According to Ahmed's wife, Afsha Begum, he traveled to Russia seeking employment but was abruptly taken to a remote location and drafted into the Army after being subjected to weapons training.
Owaisi has urged the Foreign Secretary to address this situation with urgency and ensure Ahmed's prompt repatriation from Russia.
In response, an official from the Indian embassy in Russia informed Owaisi that they have communicated Ahmed's details to Russian authorities and requested his swift release from military service and safe return to India.
"The Embassy is prioritizing all cases involving Indian nationals in the Russian Army and will keep the family updated on Mr. Mohammed Ahmed's situation," stated Tadu Mamu, Counsellor at the Embassy of India in Moscow.
Ahmed, previously employed as a bouncer, departed for Russia on April 25 after being promised a job in a construction firm by a Mumbai-based agent. He revealed in his video message that he was left without work for 25 days and attempted to find alternative employment without receiving any payment.
He blamed his current predicament on the agent, asserting that he had been deceived into joining the warfront.
Describing his distressing circumstances, Ahmed noted, "We were a group of 25 people. Seventeen of them have died, including an Indian."
He and three other Indians resisted the fight but faced threats at gunpoint. Two of them ultimately complied with the demands to join the conflict. "I have a plaster on my leg and cannot walk. They have ordered me to join tomorrow, but I am unable to do anything," Ahmed expressed, his voice filled with emotion.
Last year, a 30-year-old individual from Hyderabad tragically lost his life after being misled into joining the Russian military campaign against Ukraine.
The body of Mohammed Asfan was repatriated in March 2024 thanks to the Ministry of External Affairs' intervention.
Asfan, who worked in a garment shop, was also deceived by a job agent based in Dubai.
He, along with two others, traveled to Moscow via Sharjah in November 2023, lured by promises of jobs as army helpers, with initial salary promises of Rs 30,000 per month, later projected to rise to Rs 1.5 lakh.
Concerns grew for Asfan's family when they lost contact with him, prompting them to file a complaint with Hyderabad Police and seek Owaisi's help, who escalated the matter to the Ministry of External Affairs.
Point of View
This incident underscores the vulnerabilities faced by citizens abroad and the critical role of diplomatic channels in safeguarding their rights. The Indian government must remain proactive in protecting its nationals, ensuring that such cases are prioritized to prevent further tragedies.
NationPress
18/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to Mohammed Ahmed's situation?
Ahmed was deceived by a job agent promising employment in Russia but instead was forced into military service.
How is the Indian government involved?
The Indian embassy in Moscow is actively working to secure Ahmed's release and safe return to India.
What actions did Asaduddin Owaisi take?
Owaisi escalated the issue to the Foreign Secretary to ensure Ahmed's repatriation.
What are the risks for Indians abroad?
Indians abroad can be vulnerable to fraud and coercion, especially in conflict zones.
Has there been a similar case before?
Yes, a similar case involved another Hyderabad resident, Mohammed Asfan, who was killed after being duped into joining the Russian Army.
