The Supreme Court has moved to widen the compensation process for Indian families affected by the deaths of nationals who joined the Russian armed forces during the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Taking note that only six families had so far approached the authorities despite 51 reported deaths, the Court asked the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to publish a notice so that eligible families can come forward.
What the Court directed
A bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi asked the MEA to help the affected families pursue compensation from Russian authorities. The Court also sought a record of the compensation amounts fixed by Moscow and the sums actually paid out so far.
Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati told the bench that the Russian government had processed six compensation claims, of which five were settled fully and one partially. The Court said the right to seek compensation applies to the families of all 51 deceased persons and pressed for administrative steps that would make the claims process more accessible.
Numbers placed before the Court
As per the MEA’s latest status report, around 267 Indian nationals joined the Russian armed forces. Of these, 139 have been discharged through diplomatic efforts involving the Indian Embassy in Moscow, 51 have died, and the whereabouts of 77 remain unknown. Russian authorities have confirmed seven of those 77 as missing.
The bench also directed District Legal Services Authorities in Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh, with references in related proceedings to other states, to provide free legal aid to families. That assistance is meant to cover compensation applications, DNA tests for identifying mortal remains, and other legal and administrative requirements.
Background of the petition
The matter arises from Divya & Ors. v. Union of India, Writ Petition (Civil) No. 451 of 2026. The petition was filed by family members of Indians, mainly from Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh, who travelled to Russia between 2024 and 2025 on different visas.
According to the petitioners, many of the men were allegedly misled by recruitment agents who promised civilian employment in sectors such as construction, hospitality, or services. They alleged that passports and documents were taken away after arrival in Russia and that the men were then enrolled in the Russian armed forces and sent to front-line positions. These claims are part of the case as presented before the Court.
Earlier steps and ongoing concerns
The Court has already passed earlier directions in the matter, including appointment of a nodal officer, mandatory DNA testing of mortal remains before handover, and assistance with compensation-related procedures. The proceedings have also noted delays in DNA-based identification and repatriation of bodies as persistent difficulties.
The MEA has repeatedly warned Indian citizens against joining the Russian military, citing mortal dangers. The record before the Court also refers to a September 30, 2026 advisory that flagged cases where some individuals reportedly sought recruitment voluntarily for financial incentives, including signing bonuses, with the expectation that they could later obtain release through Indian government intervention.
The government has further stated that some individuals tried to renounce Indian citizenship in favour of Russian passports. It says it continues to engage Russian authorities for the discharge and repatriation of remaining nationals while assisting families of the deceased and missing. The matter remains pending before the Supreme Court for further updates on compensation disbursements and the status of those still untraced.
