Russia arrests Indian engineer in Moscow — Wife makes startling claim

The detention of an Indian engineer in Moscow has taken a new turn after his wife made allegations about what may have happened to him following his arrest in the Russian capital.

The detention of an Indian engineer in Moscow has taken a new turn after his wife made allegations about what may have happened to him following his arrest in the Russian capital.

According to Indian media reports engineer Chandan Gupta and his friend Ashish were detained by Russian security forces near Moscow’s Red Square. Gupta had travelled to Russia for employment through a Noida-based company and was living in Moscow with his family.

Gupta’s wife, Sneha, has alleged that her husband was being pressured during detention to join the Russian military and serve in the war against Ukraine. She claimed that shortages of personnel in the Russian military had led to efforts to recruit foreign nationals including Indians.

However Sneha has not provided evidence publicly to substantiate the allegation. Russian authorities have also not according to the information available confirmed or denied her claim.

Concerned about her husband’s continued detention, Sneha released a video on social media appealing to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath for assistance.

She said Gupta was a qualified engineer who had travelled to Russia on a “highly qualified specialist” visa obtained through his employer in Noida. According to her account he was detained around 12:30pm on Sunday and has remained in custody.

The case has emerged against the backdrop of wider concerns over Indian nationals serving in the Russian armed forces.

India’s Ministry of External Affairs has previously said that 227 Indian citizens had been recruited into the Russian armed forces. Of these, 139 had been discharged while 51 Indian nationals had died, according to figures cited in the report.

The Indian government has said it remains in contact with Russian authorities to secure the discharge and return of remaining Indian citizens serving in the Russian military.

Several Indian families have previously alleged that relatives travelled to Russia after being promised employment or other assistance but were subsequently connected with the Russian military.

Meanwhile, Russian authorities have reportedly accused Gupta and Ashish of being under the influence of alcohol and damaging the windows of a nearby ambulance.

At present the circumstances surrounding the detention remain unclear. Gupta’s wife’s allegations have not been independently established, while further information from Russian or Indian authorities could shed light on the case.