A tragic incident has unfolded, highlighting the human cost of the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Ravi Moun, a 22-year-old from Haryana, India, has died in Russia while fighting in the war. His family has alleged that he was forced into military service after being deceived with promises of employment.
Ravi’s family, residing in Matour village in Kaithal district, reported his disappearance five months ago. The Indian Embassy in Moscow confirmed his death through communication with his family, although the circumstances surrounding his passing remain unclear. The family claims that Ravi was tricked into joining the Russian Army after being promised a driving job. They assert that he was pressured to fight on the frontline under threat of imprisonment.
Further fueling their accusations, the family shared photos of Ravi in a Russian military uniform, lending credence to their claim of his forced recruitment. They emphasize that Ravi’s last communication with his brother was on March 12, revealing his involvement in the conflict since March 6.
After exhausting all avenues, the family has appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for assistance in bringing Ravi’s body back to India. This plea comes on the heels of Prime Minister Modi’s recent meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, where he raised concerns about Indian nationals serving in the Russian military and sought their release. Subsequently, Russia reportedly agreed to discharge and facilitate the return of Indian soldiers.
The loss of Ravi Moun adds to the growing number of Indian casualties in the conflict. In June, the Ministry of External Affairs confirmed the deaths of two other Indians who had been recruited by the Russian Army. Additionally, two more Indian nationals – from Surat and Hyderabad – were killed in March during the war. This unfortunate incident underscores the global reach of the Russia-Ukraine conflict and its devastating human impact. The family’s struggle to bring Ravi’s remains home is a poignant reminder of the families left behind to mourn the loss of loved ones caught in the crossfire of war.
