JKNS DESK
Uri, Oct 20 (JKNS): A youth from Saidpora area of Uri in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district has allegedly been held against his will in Russia and coerced into joining military service, prompting his family to appeal to the Government of India for his immediate rescue and safe return.
Details available with news agency JKNS stated that, The youth has been identified as Azaz Gillani, a father of three young children. His distressed family, particularly his elderly parents, has expressed deep concern over his safety and urged the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and the central government to intervene through diplomatic channels.
According to family sources, Azaz travelled to Russia around 10 days ago after obtaining a visa. He reportedly remained in regular contact with his family during the initial period and informed them that he was safe.
However, the family’s concerns intensified after Azaz allegedly made a frantic phone call, informing them that his mobile phone was about to be confiscated and that he was being pressured to join the Russian military.
A relative, as quoted in the account shared by the family, said Azaz had allegedly been told to join the army or face physical punishment and imprisonment.
The family fears that he may be at risk in a foreign country and has appealed for urgent intervention to ensure his safety and return to India.
The reported incident has also raised concerns over the alleged exploitation of Indian youths through fraudulent recruitment and travel arrangements linked to Russia. In previous cases, Indian nationals were reportedly lured by promises of jobs or security-related employment before being made to serve in the Russian military amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.
The family has urged the authorities to examine the circumstances under which Azaz travelled to Russia and investigate the role, if any, of travel agents or other intermediaries involved in arranging his journey and visa.
There was no independent confirmation available at the time of filing this report regarding the circumstances of Azaz’s alleged detention or the reported pressure to join military service. The family’s appeal for his rescue remains urgent, with his relatives hoping for timely government intervention to secure his safe return. (JKNS)
