The Supreme Court of India has directed the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to issue a public notice inviting compensation claims from the families of Indian nationals who died while serving in the Russian armed forces in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. A bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi issued the direction after the MEA informed the Court that only six families had approached authorities for compensation despite 51 reported deaths.
According to the MEA’s latest status report, approximately 267 Indian nationals joined the Russian armed forces. Of these, 139 have been discharged through diplomatic efforts facilitated by the Indian Embassy in Moscow, 51 have died, and the whereabouts of 77 remain unknown. Russian authorities have confirmed seven of the 77 as missing.
The Court observed that the right to seek compensation accrues to the families of all 51 deceased persons and directed the MEA to assist affected families in securing compensatory benefits from Russian authorities. It further asked the Ministry to place on record the compensation amounts determined by Moscow and the sums actually disbursed.
Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati, appearing for the Centre, informed the bench that the Russian government had processed six compensation claims, of which five had been settled fully and one partially. The Court directed District Legal Services Authorities in Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh (with references in related proceedings to other states) to ensure free legal aid to families for submitting claims, conducting DNA tests for identification of mortal remains, and completing other necessary legal and administrative formalities. Delays in DNA-based identification and repatriation of bodies have been noted as persistent challenges.
The proceedings arise from a petition (Divya & Ors. v. Union of India, Writ Petition (Civil) No. 451 of 2026) filed by family members of Indians, primarily from Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh, who travelled to Russia between 2024 and 2025 on various visas.
The petitioners alleged that many were deceived by recruitment agents who promised civilian employment in sectors such as construction, hospitality, or services, only for their passports and documents to be confiscated upon arrival and for them to be enrolled in the Russian armed forces and deployed to front-line positions. The Court has previously directed the appointment of a nodal officer, mandatory DNA testing of mortal remains before handover, and assistance with compensation procedures.
The MEA has repeatedly issued advisories warning Indian citizens against joining the Russian military, citing mortal dangers. A September 30, 2026, advisory specifically flagged instances of individuals willingly seeking recruitment for monetary benefits, including signing bonuses, with the expectation that they could later secure release through Indian government intervention.
Some cases involved attempts to renounce Indian citizenship in favour of a Russian passport. The government has stated that it continues to engage Russian authorities for the discharge and repatriation of remaining nationals while assisting families of the deceased and missing.
The Supreme Court’s directions aim to broaden awareness of compensation entitlements and streamline administrative processes amid ongoing diplomatic efforts to account for all affected Indian nationals. The matter remains under the Court’s consideration for further updates on compensation disbursements and the status of untraced individuals.
