Urgen Tamang pulled back from the frontline in Ukraine war

YOWAN MOTHAY, EOI, KALIMPONG, AUGUST 11, 2024 : Kalimpong native Urgen Tamang, who had been fighting in the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, has recently been pulled back from the frontline by the Russian authorities. 

In a video call with Kalimpong Municipality Administrator Ravi Pradhan, Tamang confirmed that he was withdrawn from active combat on August 10 and has since been relocated to a safer area. 

Tamang has expressed the hope that he will soon be safely repatriated to his home. A meeting has been scheduled with a Russian military commander, which is expected to provide further clarity on his future. 

In a video message, Ravi Pradhan has expressed optimism regarding Tamang’s safe return, highlighting the continuous efforts being made on his behalf. 

Tamang’s family, including his wife and two children, are anxiously awaiting his safe return and are offering prayers for his well-being. 

According to Ravi Pradhan, Urgen Tamang, a former Indian soldier, has been facing severe challenges while being involved in the conflict. 

The rescue efforts for Tamang have been supported by Darjeeling M.P. Raju Bista, Gorkhaland Territorial Administration Chairman Anit Thapa, and the organization Mato Ko Maya; all of whom have played important roles in the ongoing efforts. 

Pradhan has extended his gratitude to everyone involved in the rescue mission. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had earlier raised the issue of repatriation of Indian citizens caught in the Russia-Ukraine conflict during a discussion with Russian President Vladimir Putin. 

Following this diplomatic effort, progress has been made in the process of the return of Indians like Urgen Tamang. 

Pradhan said on Sunday: "I am in daily contact with Urgen and closely monitoring his situation. The news of his withdrawal from the frontline has renewed hope for his safe return." 

It has been reported that Urgen Tamang is among 15 non-Russians who had joined the conflict, of whom 12 have reportedly died. 

Tamang had been on the frontlines fighting for Russia since January. His family has revealed that he had been lured into the conflict under the guise of a job offer, only to find himself trapped in the war; a situation they described as a deceitful entrapment.