At least 12 Indian nationals have been confirmed dead in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, while 16 others are reported missing, according to a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Friday. The deceased were fighting on behalf of Russia, as indicated by the ministry.

During a press conference, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal detailed, “As of today, there are 126 cases of Indian nationals serving in the Russian Army. Of these, 96 have returned to India and have been discharged from military service. Currently, 18 Indian nationals remain in the Russian Army, and the whereabouts of 16 are unknown.”

He further stated, “The Russian authorities have classified these individuals as missing, and we are actively seeking their early release and repatriation. The 12 Indian nationals who have died were serving in the Russian Army.”

This statement follows the death of Binil Babu, an Indian national who was recruited by the Russian military, and another Indian who was injured during the conflict. The Indian embassy is coordinating with Russian officials to facilitate the return of Babu’s remains. Additionally, another Indian national, Jain TK, is receiving medical treatment in Moscow and is expected to return to India upon completion of his treatment.

In addressing the loss of Binil Babu, Jaiswal remarked, “His death is extremely unfortunate. We have expressed our condolences to his family. Our embassy is in communication with Russian authorities to ensure the timely repatriation of his mortal remains. Another individual injured is being treated in Moscow and is likely to return to India shortly after his recovery.”

The MEA reiterated that the embassy in Moscow is in contact with the families of both individuals, providing all necessary assistance. “We have learned of the unfortunate death of the Indian national from Kerala, who had apparently been recruited to serve in the Russian Army,” Jaiswal added.

In the spiritually charged atmosphere of the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, a towering figure draped in saffron robes and adorned with a rudraksha mala is drawing the eyes of many. Known affectionately as “Muscular Baba,” Atma Prem Giri Maharaj, a seven-foot-tall monk from Russia, has become one of the focal points of this massive gathering.

The Maha Kumbh Mela, a grand spiritual assembly on the banks of the Sangam—the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and mythical Saraswati rivers—hosts millions of pilgrims from all over the world. Among them, Atma Prem Giri Maharaj stands out not only for his height but also for his impressive physique, reminiscent of Lord Parshuram, a warrior avatar of Lord Vishnu known for his strength.

Originally from Russia, Giri embraced Hinduism and Sanatan Dharma three decades ago. Formerly a teacher, he now dedicates his life to the promotion of Hindu teachings, residing in Nepal and participating in religious communities like the Juna Akhara, a prominent Hindu monastic order.

A recent photo of him posted on Instagram showing his robust form has captured the public’s imagination, garnering much attention and praise, epitomized by chants of “Har Har Mahadev” in the comments.

The Maha Kumbh also features other notable ascetics such as Abhey Singh, an ex-aerospace engineer from Haryana, now known as “IIT Baba,” who swapped his scientific pursuits for a spiritual path. Additionally, Mahant Rajpuri Ji Maharaj, affectionately called “Kabootar Wale Baba” (the Pigeon Saint), is another figure attracting attention with his unique companion, a pigeon named Hari Puri, symbolizing his commitment to peace and kindness.

As the Maha Kumbh continues, these diverse stories of faith and dedication enrich the tapestry of this ancient festival, illustrating the universal appeal and transformative power of spiritual life.

Also read: Ramesh Kumar Manjhi aka Kaante Wale Baba draws crowds at Maha Kumbh

As the political temperature in Delhi heats up with the upcoming elections, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has affirmed its commitment to continue the welfare schemes initiated by the incumbent Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). This announcement was part of BJP’s recently unveiled manifesto, which was immediately met with skepticism by AAP’s chief, Arvind Kejriwal.

During the release of BJP’s three-part ‘Sankalp Patra’, which focuses on women’s welfare, Union Minister JP Nadda outlined plans that include financial support for women, young mothers, and senior citizens, along with subsidies for cooking gas cylinders. However, Kejriwal seized on these promises to question the BJP’s rationale for asking for votes if their plan only mirrors existing schemes.

Kejriwal’s response was sharp, especially on social media where he pointed out that even BJP members’ families benefit from the welfare policies his government implemented. He provocatively asked if Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved of the BJP’s promise of continuing ‘free revdi’—a term Modi used pejoratively to describe AAP’s freebie culture. Kejriwal demanded Modi to acknowledge that these initiatives were beneficial rather than detrimental.

Moreover, the AAP leader criticized the BJP for lacking a substantive plan for Delhi, particularly in addressing the law-and-order situation, which he referred to amid discussions of ongoing gang conflicts in the region. He dismissed the BJP’s manifesto as a mere replication of AAP’s policies without original vision.

The BJP, through Delhi chief Virendra Sachdeva, retorted by accusing Kejriwal of misunderstanding the difference between mere handouts and actual empowerment. Sachdeva emphasized that BJP’s vision encompasses comprehensive development and empowerment, contrasting it with AAP’s approach.

Nadda, during the manifesto release, also targeted the AAP for alleged corruption, especially criticizing the Mohalla Clinics as corrupt institutions, promising investigations if BJP is elected.

As the electoral battle in Delhi intensifies, both parties continue to spar over the implications of their policies, each trying to sway the electorate with promises of better governance and accusations of inadequate leadership.