Punjab: Jalandhar Youth dies in Russia-Ukraine war, family alleges forced military recruitment
PTC News Desk: A youth from Goraya in Punjab's Jalandhar district lost his life in the Russia-Ukraine war after he was allegedly forced to join the Russian army. After remaining missing for several months, his body has now been brought back to India, plunging his family and the local area into mourning.
The deceased, 30-year-old Mandeep Kumar, was a resident of Goraya town and had gone to Russia in search of better job opportunities and a secure future. His family said he fell into the trap of travel agents who sent him to Russia on the false promise of employment. However, once he reached there, the situation changed completely.
Mandeep Kumar had left for Armenia on September 17, 2023, along with a relative and three acquaintances. They flew from Amritsar to Armenia, where they worked as labourers for three months. On December 9, 2023, they travelled to Russia. While Mandeep stayed back in Russia, his relative and the other three companions returned to India.
Mandeep’s brother, Jagdeep Kumar, said the family will now try to find out how his brother was recruited into the Russian army, especially since Mandeep was differently abled and such individuals are not eligible for military service. He said the family will take up the matter with India’s Ministry of External Affairs and the Russian government, and will also file a case in a Russian court.
Mandeep's mortal remains have been brought to India. The body will soon be taken to Jalandhar, where Mandeep will be cremated with full honours.
- With inputs from agencies
