Supreme Court Asks Centre to Simplify Russian Army Compensation Claims for Indian Families

The Supreme Court asked the Centre to explore simpler compensation procedures for families of Indians recruited into the Russian armed forces, including filing claims through the Russian Embassy in India.

Background and legal issue

The petition concerns families seeking information, repatriation and compensation after deaths or disappearances connected with the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Counsel described obstacles involving travel and foreign bank accounts.

Court’s reasoning and procedural position

The Bench suggested a public notice inviting affected families to approach the Ministry of External Affairs and sought a supplementary report on assessed and disbursed compensation.

Legal consequence and next step

District Legal Services Authorities were also asked to assist with claims, DNA testing and related formalities. The Court has not determined the liability of individual recruitment agents.