Supreme Court Orders Relief for Indian Families Affected by Russia-Ukraine War
MEA told to appoint nodal officer, expedite DNA identification, and assist families in securing compensation and mortal remains
New Delhi, Aug. 1: The Supreme Court on Friday issued a series of directions to ensure timely assistance for families of Indian nationals who died, went missing, or sustained injuries while serving in the Russia-Ukraine conflict after allegedly being lured abroad through fraudulent job offers.
A Bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V. Mohana instructed the Union Government to designate a dedicated nodal officer within the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to maintain direct communication with affected families and coordinate all related matters.
The court also directed the MEA to facilitate DNA matching between family members and recovered mortal remains, ensuring that verified bodies are handed over without unnecessary delays. Authorities were further asked to provide bereaved families with clear guidance on documentation required to claim compensation from the Russian government.
To improve accessibility, the Bench ordered that all official updates and communications be shared in regional languages wherever required. It also stressed the need for swift processing of pending cases involving the return of mortal remains so that families can perform the final rites of their loved ones.
The directions came while hearing a petition filed on behalf of Indian citizens allegedly recruited into the Russian military after being deceived by travel agents promising overseas employment. The plea sought a coordinated mechanism for repatriation, compensation, and continued support for the affected families.
The Supreme Court further instructed the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) and state legal services authorities to assist families in completing legal formalities, securing the return of mortal remains, and pursuing compensation claims.
During the hearing, Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati informed the court that, according to the latest government data, 219 Indian nationals had joined the conflict, 51 had lost their lives, and 20 had returned to India.
The Bench observed that more than 200 Indians, many from Rajasthan, Haryana, and Punjab, had travelled to Russia during 2024–25 for jobs in sectors such as hospitality. However, it noted allegations that many were deceived by recruitment agents, had their passports confiscated upon arrival, and were subsequently enrolled in the Russian military before being deployed to active combat zones.
While acknowledging that the remains of several deceased individuals had already been brought back to India after due verification, the court noted that many families were still awaiting compensation and other forms of assistance.
The Centre had earlier informed the court that sustained diplomatic engagement with the Russian Federation had resulted in the release of 139 Indian nationals from military contracts. It also stated that DNA samples from immediate family members of 21 individuals had been shared with Russian authorities to help identify remains and trace missing persons.
The government reiterated that it has consistently advised Indian citizens since February 2024 against accepting employment in Russia linked to the ongoing conflict. It also highlighted action against illegal recruitment networks accused of sending Indians into war zones through false promises of overseas jobs.
With these directions in place, the Supreme Court disposed of the petition, while expecting authorities to continue diplomatic, humanitarian, and consular efforts to assist the remaining affected families.
