Man 'detained' in Russia, pressured to join war, alleges family; 2nd such case in Chhattisgarh

A man named Tikeshwar Sahu, from Raipur, is being held in Russia under false drug charges. His family claims he may be pressured to join the Russian Army for the war or face an extended jail sentence. This situation is similar to another case in Chhattisgarh where a 21-year-old from Bilaspur district was reportedly detained in Russia and tortured to force him to enlist in the war.

Russia and Ukraine are currently at war. Tikeshwar's wife, Manorama Sahu, has written to the Chhattisgarh Chief Minister's Office and other authorities, requesting intervention to secure his release and safe return to India. He arrived in Russia on September 8, 2026, on a tourist visa, but has not been heard from since September 16.

Family members suspect he may be threatened with death and facing a 20-year jail term. They are demanding assistance from the Indian government and embassy to resolve this issue.