CM instructs officials to liaise with MEA for repatriation of Keralite killed in Russia-Ukraine conflict
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Synopsis
On January 14, CM Pinarayi Vijayan directed NORKA officials to work with the MEA for repatriating T.B. Binil's body, who died in a drone strike while serving in the Russian Army. The incident highlights concerns about Indian nationals being recruited into conflict zones.
Key Takeaways
- CM Vijayan's directive to NORKA for coordination with MEA.
- T.B. Binil was killed in a drone attack in Ukraine.
- Family learned about Binil's death through embassy officials.
- Indian government demands return of remaining Indians in conflict zones.
- Concerns over recruitment of youths for military service abroad.
Thiruvananthapuram, Jan 14 (NationPress) Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Tuesday urged the officials from the Non-Resident Keralites Affairs (NORKA) Department to collaborate with the Ministry of External Affairs in order to facilitate the return of the body of 32-year-old T.B. Binil, who lost his life in a drone strike while serving in the Russian military amidst the ongoing war in Ukraine.
A few days earlier, Binil's family received information about two individuals being injured in a drone attack, but they were unable to make contact with them. Binil, hailing from Wadakkanchery in Thrissur district, succumbed to his injuries, while his relative 27-year-old T.K. Jain suffered injuries in the same attack.
Vijayan has instructed NORKA CEO Ajith Kolasery to take all necessary actions to ensure the return of Binil's body and to assist the injured Jain. Although the MEA has confirmed the death of an Indian national from Kerala, Binil's family reported that they learned of his demise through Indian officials at the embassy in Moscow.
In response to the news of the death, the Indian government reiterated its call for the prompt return of the remaining Indians serving in the Russian Army within conflict areas.
“We have been informed about the tragic death of an Indian national from Kerala who was reportedly enlisted in the Russian Army. Another individual from Kerala who was similarly engaged is currently hospitalized in Moscow due to injuries,” stated Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal.
Furthermore, according to Binil’s family, he held a mechanical diploma and arrived in Russia on April 4, intending to work as an electrician. After landing, their passports were confiscated, and they were subsequently dispatched to the war zone.
There are also reports indicating that certain organized groups are targeting youths by enticing them with lucrative salary offers.
