Student who went to Russia on a study visa was forcibly recruited into the army; family seeks help

An Indian student who had traveled to Russia with the golden dream of studying was handed a gun instead of books. He was deceitfully recruited into the army and then sent to the battlefield, leaving his family terrified.

Student had gone to Russia on a study visa
According to reports, Rakesh Maurya (30), a resident of Shaktifarm, traveled to Russia on August 5th on a study visa. Rakesh’s goal was to pursue higher education in Russia, but upon arriving, he was handed a gun instead of books. Rakesh’s family reported that his passport and other important documents were taken away upon his arrival.

Forced to Sign Documents
According to the family, all official emails were deleted from Rakesh’s mobile and laptop. He was also forcibly recruited into the army after being forced to sign documents. He was then dressed in a military uniform and sent to training in the Donbas region and then to the battlefield. Rakesh’s family says they last spoke to him on August 30th, when Rakesh narrated his ordeal.

Contacted the Indian Embassy in Russia and filed a complaint
Rakesh Maurya’s family stated that they have contacted the Indian Embassy in Russia and filed a complaint. They have also informed the Ministry of External Affairs and the local administration. The family has appealed to the Indian government to ensure Rakesh’s safe return to India as soon as possible.