Indian Students in Russia Face Exploitation, Racial Bias: Over 50% Global Cases

• A recent knife attack on four Indian students in Russia has renewed concerns about their safety.
• Russia accounts for over 50% of global complaints from Indian students regarding exploitation and racial discrimination, with more than 200 out of 350 complaints in 2025 originating from Russia.
• Complaints from Indian students in Russia surged from 68 in 2023 to 201 in 2025, despite the country remaining popular for medical courses due to lower fees.
• Students report discrimination, harassment, and mental abuse from universities, often fearing retaliation or visa complications if they report incidents.
• The worsening situation has led to a significant decline (at least 50%) in Indian students choosing Russia, with many now opting for countries like Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan.