congress-criticises-centre-over-stranded-indian-youths-in-russia

The Congress party launched a scathing attack on the government on Friday over the plight of approximately 20 Indian support workers stranded in Russia, asserting that they are being held "hostage" due to dire circumstances back home, marked by increasing unemployment.

 

Responding to the situation, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) assured that it is exerting all efforts to facilitate the early departure of the stranded individuals from Russia.

 

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated, "It is our understanding that there are 20 or so people (Indians) who have gone there to work as support staff or helpers with the Russian army."

 

Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh criticised the government, highlighting the dire unemployment situation in India, which compels young people to seek employment overseas, even in conflict-ridden regions like Israel and Russia.

 

Addressing a press conference at the All India Congress Committee (AICC) headquarters, Congress leader Kanhaiya Kumar condemned the situation, stating that Indian nationals are being held "hostage" in Russia, with reports of one Gujarati civilian worker losing his life. Kumar questioned the government's silence on the matter.

 

Kumar attributed the situation to the high unemployment rate in India, emphasising that if the Modi government had created the promised two crore jobs annually, young people would not have been compelled to seek employment abroad.

 

He further criticised the exploitation of Indian youth, highlighting instances where they are sent to countries like Israel as labourers due to the lack of opportunities domestically.

 

Meanwhile, MEA spokesperson Jaiswal reassured that efforts are being made to assist the stranded individuals in Russia, with the Indian Embassy in Moscow being approached by the affected persons.

 

Reports suggest that some Indian nationals, enlisted as security personnel in the Russian military, have been forced to participate in conflict zones near Russia's border with Ukraine. The MEA reiterated its commitment to securing their safe return and providing necessary support.

 

The Congress's criticism comes amid growing concerns over the welfare of Indian citizens abroad and the government's response to their plight.