Jalandhar Man killed in Russia-Ukraine war, family alleges forced recruitment

A 30-year-old man from Jalandhar district of Punjab has died in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, with his family alleging that he was forcibly recruited into the Russian military after being misled by travel agents.

The deceased has been identified as Mandeep Kumar, a resident of the Goraya area.

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According to family members, Mandeep had travelled abroad in search of employment after being assured of job opportunities by agents. He initially left India in September 2023, along with a relative and a few acquaintances, and reached Armenia, where the group reportedly worked for several months. In December 2023, they moved to Russia, after which contact with Mandeep gradually ceased.

Relatives said that while others returned to India, Mandeep remained in Russia under unclear circumstances. The family later learned that he had allegedly been inducted into the Russian army against his will and subsequently lost his life during the conflict.

They also claimed that Mandeep was physically-challenged, raising questions over how he could have been recruited.

Following his disappearance, the family approached local authorities and sought assistance from both state and central governments.

Mandeep’s brother said he also travelled to Russia to gather information and is now seeking answers from the Ministry of External Affairs and Russian authorities.

After months of uncertainty, officials confirmed Mandeep’s death, and his mortal remains have been brought back to India. The family said the body will be taken to Jalandhar for the last rites, as the community mourns the loss and demands accountability in the case.