
Binil Babu, a 32-year-old from Thrissur, Kerala, was tragically killed in a shell attack while serving with the Russian Army on the Russia-Ukraine warfront. Babu and his 27-year-old relative, Jain Kurian, were reportedly forcibly enlisted into the Russian military, sparking outrage and desperate pleas from their families for their return. Kurian sustained severe injuries in a recent drone attack and is currently undergoing treatment in Moscow.
This incident, confirmed by a message to Babu’s family from the Indian Embassy on Monday, has intensified concerns over Indian nationals allegedly coerced into Russian military service. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) expressed condolences to the family and stated that the matter has been “strongly taken up” with Russian authorities, both in Moscow and through the Russian Embassy in New Delhi.
India’s Demand for Action
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, in a statement on Tuesday, reiterated India’s demand for the release and repatriation of all Indian nationals serving in the Russian Army. “We have learned of the unfortunate death of an Indian national from Kerala who was apparently recruited to serve in the Russian Army. Another Indian national from Kerala, similarly recruited, has been injured and is receiving treatment in Moscow,” Jaiswal said.
He further assured that India’s embassy in Moscow is providing full assistance to the affected families, including facilitating the transportation of Babu’s body back to India.
Rising Indian Casualties
The death of Binil Babu raises the number of Indian casualties in the ongoing conflict to 10. It underscores the plight of Indian nationals who were allegedly deceived by fake recruiters or forcibly inducted into Russia’s military forces. According to government figures, 85 Indians have been discharged from the Russian Army since October, but 20 more remain awaiting release.
Diplomatic Efforts Intensify
Prime Minister Narendra Modi had raised the issue of forcibly enlisted Indians during his discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin, including at the 16th BRICS Summit in Kazan last October. The Indian government continues to press for the safe return of all its nationals, with the MEA confirming that the issue remains a priority in bilateral discussions.
“We have reiterated our demand for the early discharge of the remaining Indian nationals. The matter has been strongly taken up with the Russian authorities at the highest levels,” Jaiswal emphasized.
Call for Justice
The tragic death of Binil Babu and the ongoing challenges faced by Indians in the Russian military highlight the urgent need for international intervention and transparent investigation into recruitment practices. As families in Kerala and across India await the safe return of their loved ones, the Modi government has vowed to leave no stone unturned in ensuring justice and safety for its citizens.