An Indian national, Urgen Tamang, a 47-year-old former Indian Army personnel from Kalimpong, West Bengal, has found himself ensnared in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.
In a recent video message, Tamang revealed the grim reality of his situation, stating that 13 out of 15 non-Russians in his unit have been killed, leaving only him and one other survivor from Sri Lanka.
Tamang's ordeal began in March when he traveled to Russia after being promised a security job. However, he alleges that the agents who recruited him deceived him and instead forced him into the war after a brief period of weapon training. His first distress call was made in a video message in March, where he described being forcibly sent to the frontline.
Tamang's latest video, released on July 11, expresses hope that the recent meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin on July 8 will lead to his release. Modi's visit to Moscow was followed by assurances that efforts were underway to facilitate the return of Indian citizens caught in the conflict.
Tamang stated, "I have been in touch with the chairman of Kalimpong Municipality who updates me on India's efforts. Modi's meeting with Putin has given me hope that I will return home alive."
Back in Kalimpong, Tamang's family is living in a state of anxiety and anticipation. His wife, Ambika, shared her mixed emotions, saying, "Though Urgen is saying that he is safe, I am really worried after he told me that 13 of the 15 non-Russians in his group have already died. I get to speak with him for very short time occasionally."
The Indian government has been urged to take swift action to secure the release of all Indian citizens trapped in the war zone. Many of them, like Tamang, claim they were misled by recruitment agents who promised lucrative jobs abroad. Reports suggest that at least four Indian citizens have already lost their lives in the conflict.
While recent reports indicate that Russia has agreed to discharge Indian nationals serving in its army, the fate of individuals like Tamang remains uncertain. As the conflict continues, their families and the Indian government are working tirelessly to bring them back home safely.
