Hemil Ashvinbhai Mangukiya : Tragic Death: Young Man from Gujarat Killed in Russia War

As the conflict in Ukraine continues to escalate, the involvement of Indian nationals fighting for the Russian side has come under scrutiny. Recent reports have shed light on the tragic death of a 23-year-old man from Gujarat, Hemil Ashvinbhai Mangukiya, who was killed in an airstrike by Ukraine on 21 February in the Donetsk region on the Russia-Ukraine border. Hemil, a resident of Surat, had been working as a security helper for the Russian army since December 2023.

The Tragic Incident

According to reports, Hemil was part of a group of Indians present on the battlefield when the Ukrainian army conducted the airstrike. His co-worker, Sameer Ahmad, recounted the harrowing experience, stating that he witnessed Hemil’s death during the attack. Hemil’s body, with visible injuries on the face and skull, was later seen lying in a truck alongside other casualties.

Reports indicate that Hemil, who was close to the Russian commander, was not assigned menial tasks and was well-regarded among his colleagues.

The Mangukiya Family’s Grief

Hemil’s family was devastated by the news of his death, which they received two days after the incident. His father, Ashwin, expressed his distress at not knowing the whereabouts of his son’s body and appealed to the Indian government to intervene and facilitate the return of Hemil’s remains.

Hemil’s last conversation with his father, where he assured him of his well-being, remains a poignant memory for the family. They were unaware of his involvement in the conflict and believed he was working as a helper in Russia.

Hemil’s Background and Journey to Russia

Originally from Velanja village in Surat, Hemil pursued a small embroidery business before seeking employment opportunities abroad. He was lured by promises of a lucrative job in Russia as a security helper, with a monthly salary of Rs 2 lakh. Despite his family’s concerns, Hemil left for Russia in December, hoping to secure a better future.

Tragically, Hemil found himself thrust into a war zone, unaware of the dangers that awaited him. Despite his attempts to seek discharge and return home, his pleas went unanswered, leading to the fatal airstrike that claimed his life.

Indian Nationals in the Russian Army

Hemil’s story is just one among many instances of Indian nationals being recruited by the Russian army for various roles. While some individuals willingly join in search of better opportunities, others claim they were duped and forced into combat.

Reports suggest that the Indian embassy in Moscow has been inundated with requests for assistance from Indian workers seeking to return home. The Indian government has pledged to address these cases and facilitate the safe return of its citizens.

Government Response and Assistance

The External Affairs Ministry has refuted claims of inaction regarding Indians seeking discharge from the Russian army, stating that every case has been taken up with the relevant authorities. Efforts are underway to secure the release of Indian nationals deployed in the conflict zone.

Media reports regarding Indian nationals seeking discharge from the Russian Army:https://t.co/khl2aGAF2h pic.twitter.com/QmLC8WS5TR

— Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) February 26, 2024

The Indian government remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of its citizens caught up in the conflict, striving to bring them back home.

With the tragic loss of Hemil Ashvinbhai Mangukiya, the spotlight remains on the plight of Indian nationals entangled in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, underscoring the need for greater awareness and protection for those working abroad.

With inputs from agencies