Indian students’ complaints of exploitation, racial bias in Russia account for over 50% of global cases: Report

A recent knife attack that injured four Indian students in Russia has renewed concern about student safety, as updated data from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) shows the country has become the largest hotspot for reported exploitation and racial discrimination.

According to figures cited by The Times of India, Indian students across 196 countries filed around 350 complaints in 2025. Of these, more than 200 came from Russia alone.

Authorities and student groups have been alarmed by the rapid increase in cases. Indian students filed 68 complaints in 2023, rising to 78 in 2024 before jumping to 201 in 2025.

Russia continues to attract students — especially for medical courses — due to lower fees and easier admissions. Many come from states including Rajasthan, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Kerala and Tamil Nadu. However, the growing number of complaints has raised questions about safety and welfare.

Students report discrimination and harassment

Students studying in Russia told the outlet that discrimination was common and often came from peers of other nationalities. Some alleged mental harassment by universities, including threats of expulsion over minor mistakes. Many said they avoided reporting incidents due to fear of retaliation, visa complications or expulsion.

Representatives of Foreign Medical Graduates (FMG) associations said racial profiling, verbal abuse and lack of institutional support had become frequent problems. “Complaints are rarely taken seriously. Students suffer in silence as universities often sideline them,” said D Kaushal, coordinator of All FMGs.

Kaushal also claimed that while Russian rules allow universities to admit around 200 foreign students, some institutions enrol more than 1,200. According to him, students are later expelled — sometimes even in their sixth year — in violation of regulations. “Such expulsions leave students in severe financial and psychological distress,” he said.

Students turning to other countries

Owing to the worsening situation, FMG groups said more Indian students were now opting for countries such as Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan. “The number of Indian students choosing Russia has declined significantly, by at least 50 per cent, in recent years due to these issues,” said Manoj Kumar, president of the FMGs Association of India. He added that Russia had become less attractive since the Russia–Ukraine war began in 2022.

Responding to a recent Lok Sabha query on exploitation faced by Indians overseas, Kirti Vardhan Singh, Minister of State for External Affairs, said that Indian missions were closely engaged in supporting students. “Dedicated officers have been posted in Indian missions and posts overseas to handle education and student welfare-related matters,” he said.

“Our missions maintain regular contact with Indian students enrolled abroad and brief them on challenges and threats, if any,” he added.