SC Orders Centre to Help Families of Indians Killed, Missing in Russia-Ukraine War

NEW DELHI, Jul 31: The Supreme Court on Friday directed the Centre to appoint a nodal officer in the Ministry of External Affairs to coordinate with families of Indians who have died, gone missing or suffered injuries while fighting in the Russia-Ukraine war.

A bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana also directed the MEA to facilitate DNA matching between family members and mortal remains.

The bench asked the MEA to assist affected families in filing compensation claims before the Russian Embassy in India and ensure that relevant information and updates are provided in vernacular languages.

The court further directed the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) and state legal services authorities to assist families in securing the mortal remains of their relatives and pursuing compensation claims.

The directions were issued while hearing a petition filed by family members of people who allegedly died or went missing after being recruited to fight in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Several Indians were allegedly duped by travel agents and subsequently made to fight in the war. (AGENCIES)