Ukrainian Forces Capture Indian Student Allegedly Battling for Russia
Ukraine has detained an Indian national, Sahil Majothi, who allegedly fought for Russian forces, marking the first known case of an Indian being captured in the ongoing conflict. The 22-year-old from Gujarat had gone to Russia to study computer engineering but found himself embroiled in legal troubles that led him to join the military. His family is seeking assistance from the Indian government, which is currently investigating the situation.
Background of Sahil Majothi
Sahil Majothi, originally from Gujarat, traveled to Russia in January 2024 to pursue a degree in computer engineering. He completed a three-month language course in St Petersburg before relocating to Moscow for his studies. To support himself financially, he worked part-time as a kitchenware courier. However, his life took a drastic turn in April 2024 when he was allegedly framed in a drug case. His mother, Hasina Majothi, claims that drugs were planted in a parcel he was delivering, leading to his arrest and a subsequent seven-year prison sentence.
Despite hiring a private lawyer to defend him, the family was unaware of how Sahil was drafted into the Russian military. In a recent video released by the Ukrainian army, Sahil stated that he was given a choice: join the Russian army with a promise of pay or serve time in prison. He mentioned that he was told he would be released after a year of service, but he never received the promised compensation.
Detention and Circumstances of Capture
Sahil Majothi’s situation escalated when he was sent to the battlefield after undergoing just 15 days of military training. He claims that on September 30, he was deployed to combat, and the following day, he had a confrontation with his commander. After this incident, he separated from the Russian forces and sought help from Ukrainian troops. His mother learned of his predicament through a viral video, which has since raised concerns about the recruitment of Indians into the Russian military.
The Indian foreign ministry is currently investigating the case but has not yet received formal communication from Ukraine regarding Sahil’s detention. The family has reportedly lost contact with him since his arrest, and local authorities in Gujarat have begun questioning his relatives to gather more information.
Community Response and Government Action
The news of Sahil’s capture has prompted a strong reaction from his community in Gujarat. Local leaders have called on the Indian government to intervene and facilitate his return. Kasam Sumra, a community leader, expressed concern over the recruitment of young Indians into the Russian military, highlighting that many have been lured into the conflict under false pretenses. He urged the government to take action to bring Sahil and others back home.
Reports indicate that over 150 Indians, some on student or visitor visas, have enlisted in the Russian military, with at least 12 confirmed dead and 16 others missing in the ongoing conflict. In response to these alarming trends, Indian officials have previously urged Moscow to release and repatriate Indian nationals who have been recruited.
The Indian government has consistently advised its citizens against participating in the war in Ukraine, emphasizing the dangers involved. A spokesperson from the foreign ministry reiterated this warning, urging all Indian nationals to avoid offers to serve in the Russian army.
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