Exploitation of Young Indians in Foreign Wars Sparks Outrage

New Delhi, India - The tragic tales of young Indians being lured into fighting in foreign wars under false pretenses have raised concerns about the exploitation of vulnerable individuals seeking job opportunities abroad. The recent cases of Hemil Mangukiya, Muhammad Asfan, Azad Yusuf Kumar, and Arbab Hussain highlight the harrowing reality faced by many Indian families who have seen their loved ones fall victim to deceptive recruitment tactics. Hemil, a 23-year-old from Surat, Gujarat, was promised a job as an "army helper" in Russia, only to find himself on the front lines of the war in Ukraine. His desperate attempts to escape the conflict were in vain, leading to his untimely death in a missile strike. Similarly, Asfan from Telangana and Azad from Kashmir were also duped into believing they were signing up for non-combat roles, only to end up in dangerous combat situations far from home. The heart-wrenching accounts shared by the families of these young men shed light on the human cost of exploitation and deception. With promises of lucrative salaries and the prospect of a better future, many individuals are falling prey to unscrupulous agents who exploit their vulnerabilities for personal gain. The case of Arbab Hussain, who took a loan to pay the hefty commission demanded by recruiters for a job in the Russian army, further underscores the financial burden placed on individuals desperate for employment opportunities. His family's desperate attempts to seek help for his safety have so far gone unanswered, leaving them fearful for his life. The Indian government's acknowledgment of nearly 20 nationals being "stuck" in the Russian army is a stark reminder of the need for stricter regulations and oversight to prevent such exploitative practices. Efforts to crack down on human trafficking networks and hold accountable those responsible for deceiving young Indians into dangerous situations are steps in the right direction. As families like the Mangukiyas in Surat embark on the heartbreaking journey to bring their loved ones' remains back home, the need for greater awareness and protection of vulnerable individuals seeking employment opportunities abroad has never been more urgent. The stories of Hemil, Asfan, Azad, and Arbab serve as a sobering reminder of the dangers faced by those who fall victim to false promises and exploitation in pursuit of a better future.