Indian Student Who Fought for Russia Claims He Was Framed, Sought Escape to Ukraine
KYIV, Ukraine – An Indian student, Sahil Majothi, recently featured in a viral video released by Ukraine’s 63rd Mechanized Brigade, claims he joined the Russian army to avoid a lengthy prison sentence after being allegedly framed on drug charges in russia. Majothi’s mother, Hasina Majothi, told BBC News her son was arrested in April 2024 and sentenced to seven years in a Russian prison after someone allegedly slipped drugs into a package while he was working as a kitchenware courier in Moscow.
Majothi reportedly moved to Russia in January 2024, completing a language course in St. Petersburg before relocating to Moscow for college. After six months in detention, his family lost contact with his lawyer, according to Hasina Majothi.
In the Ukrainian brigade’s video, Majothi stated he was offered a choice between fighting for Russia or remaining in jail. He claims he was promised between 100,000 and over a million roubles for his military service, but never received any payment.
After 15 days of basic training in September 2024, Majothi was deployed to the war zone. He alleges he deserted his Russian unit on October 1, following a dispute with a commander, and sought help from Ukrainian forces after finding a dugout.
Following the video’s release, India‘s Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad questioned Majothi’s family, confirming details of his arrest and detention in Russia. The case highlights growing concerns about the recruitment of Indian nationals into the Russian military.
“Many young men like him have been trapped and dragged into the war,” community leader Kasam Sumra told the outlet. ”We appeal to the government to bring back Sahil and other young Indians who went abroad seeking work.”
the Indian Ministry of External Affairs has not yet responded to requests for comment.
