Supreme Court intervenes on plea of Indians 'forced' to fight in Ukraine war, citing human trafficking
The Supreme Court decided to intervene on behalf of 26 Indian nationals allegedly 'stuck' in Russia and 'unwillingly' forced to fight in the Ukraine war, indicating a human trafficking angle. A three-judge Bench, including Chief Justice Surya Kant, asked Solicitor-General Tushar Mehta to obtain a copy of the petition and inquire with the Centre. The petitioners claim to be victims of illegal overseas recruitment, trafficking, and exploitation, with their passports seized and forced into military service. The plea seeks judicial direction to the Ministry of External Affairs and the Indian Embassy in Russia for immediate diplomatic and consular measures, ascertainment of whereabouts, legal status, safety, and safe repatriation. It also calls for prosecution of those involved in illegal recruitment. The next hearing is April 24.
Key Points
- The Supreme Court is addressing a plea concerning 26 Indian nationals allegedly trafficked and forced to fight in the Russia-Ukraine war.
- The court views the situation as a serious case of human trafficking, with victims reporting seized passports and forced military service.
- The plea seeks immediate diplomatic and consular intervention from the Indian government for the protection and repatriation of these individuals.
- It also demands the identification and prosecution of persons involved in illegal overseas recruitment and exploitation.
- The petition names the Union government, the Indian Embassy in Russia, and several Indian states as respondents.
Exam Facts
- The Supreme Court Bench included Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul M. Pancholi.
- Solicitor-General Tushar Mehta was asked to inquire with the Centre.
- The next hearing for the case is scheduled for April 24.
- The petition names the Union government, Indian Embassy in the Russian Federation, and the States of Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab and Himachal Pradesh as respondents.
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