Student Visa: Punjab Man Forced Into Russian Army

A 25-year-old man from Moga district in Punjab, who travelled to Moscow last year on a student visa, has alleged that he was coerced into joining the Russian Army and sent to the frontline in Ukraine.

The man, identified as Buta Singh, reportedly paid ₹3.5 lakh to a Delhi-based agent who promised to arrange his study visa. After initially working as a labourer in Moscow, Singh claims he was detained in August and taken to a military camp where he, along with several other Indians, was forced into service. A video that surfaced on social media showed him in Russian army fatigues, appealing for help.

Singh’s family said they last heard from him on September 11 through a WhatsApp message. His mother has written to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, urging government intervention for his safe return.

India’s Ministry of External Affairs has taken up the matter with Russian authorities in Moscow and New Delhi. The ministry has also reiterated its advisory warning Indian citizens against joining the Russian Army or falling prey to fraudulent agents promising overseas education or jobs.

This case adds to growing concerns over Indian nationals being misled by unscrupulous agents and forced into conflict situations abroad.