With their lives hanging in the balance, four Nepali men have made a desperate plea to the Indian government for rescue from the ravages of the Russia-Ukraine war.
These men claim they were deceived by agents who sent them to Russia under false pretenses, only to be coerced into fighting on the front lines. In a harrowing video sent to India Today, the men, identified as Sanjay, Ram, Kumar, and Santosh, are seen enduring the bitter cold, seeking refuge in a makeshift shelter.
Their spokesperson recounts their ordeal, detailing how they were promised employment as helpers in the Russian Army but were instead thrust into the horrors of war.
Amidst their distress, the men express hope in the strong relationship between Nepal and India, beseeching the Indian government to intervene and facilitate their safe return home.
They lament the lack of support from the Nepalese Embassy in Moscow and implore India, their neighboring ally, to come to their aid. This plea for rescue underscores a troubling trend of unsuspecting individuals falling victim to fraudulent recruitment schemes, only to find themselves caught in the crossfire of conflict.
Last week, similar reports emerged of Indian nationals coerced into combat roles in Russia, highlighting the urgent need for intervention. Tragically, the consequences of these deceptive practices have already claimed lives, with Mohammed Asfan from Telangana becoming the latest casualty of this war.
His untimely death serves as a grim reminder of the human toll exacted by such exploitation. As the international community grapples with the escalating crisis in Eastern Europe, it is imperative for governments to prioritize the safety and well-being of their citizens abroad.
The plight of these Nepali men underscores the urgency of coordinated efforts to rescue and repatriate those ensnared in this perilous situation. In the face of adversity, solidarity and swift action are paramount. The Indian government must heed the pleas of these stranded men and take decisive steps to ensure their safe return home.
Time is of the essence, and every moment counts in alleviating their suffering and securing their freedom.