India to Address Ukraine's Consular Access Request in Line with Legal Framework
India has officially acknowledged receiving a consular access request from Ukraine concerning six of its nationals detained in a terrorism-related case, with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) emphasizing that the matter will be processed strictly in accordance with legal provisions. This development unfolds amidst heightened diplomatic interactions between New Delhi and Kyiv, following the arrest of seven foreign individuals—six Ukrainians and one American—by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in connection with an alleged cross-border terror plot.
Official Statements from the Ministry of External Affairs
During the weekly media briefing, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal addressed inquiries, stating, "We are aware of the case. This is a legal matter and the concerned agencies are investigating it." He confirmed the receipt of Kyiv's request, adding, "Yes, we have received a consular access request and this will be addressed keeping in mind the legal requirements involved in this particular case." Jaiswal highlighted that the case remains sub judice and under active investigation by relevant authorities, underscoring the importance of adhering to judicial processes.
Details of the Arrests and Allegations
The NIA apprehended the seven foreign nationals as part of a probe into an alleged terror network with international linkages. According to agency officials, the accused are suspected of entering India and subsequently traveling to the northeastern region before crossing into Myanmar. There, they reportedly established connections with insurgent groups and were involved in providing drone and weapons training. The NIA has further alleged that drones sourced from Europe were routed through India to support these activities.
A special NIA court in Delhi has remanded all seven accused to custody until March 27, as the agency continues its investigation under the provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. In response to questions about the accused traveling to Mizoram, a notified protected area, Jaiswal noted, "There are certain restricted and protected areas in India where prior permission is required. Whether they were in possession of such permissions will come out in court proceedings." He deferred detailed investigative aspects to the NIA.
Ukraine's Response and Diplomatic Exchanges
The Embassy of Ukraine in New Delhi has expressed "serious concern" over the case, raising the possibility that it might be "orchestrated and politically motivated," while firmly rejecting any suggestion of state involvement in terrorism. In a statement, the Ukrainian side emphasized that allegations must be based on "verified facts, transparent procedures and full intergovernmental cooperation," calling for objectivity and impartiality in the investigation.
Kyiv has sought active cooperation under the bilateral legal assistance framework and stressed that it has no interest in activities threatening India's security, instead advocating for stronger ties with New Delhi. Referring to shared positions, Ukraine noted that both countries unequivocally condemned terrorism in all its forms during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Ukraine in 2024, highlighting the need for global cooperation against the menace.
The Ukrainian Embassy further urged Indian authorities to ensure due process and uphold the rights of the detained nationals in line with international law, expressing confidence in the traditionally friendly relations between the two nations. This diplomatic engagement underscores the complexities of balancing legal obligations with international partnerships in sensitive security matters.
