The Aryavarth Express
Agency (New Delhi): The Government of India, through its Missions and Posts abroad, is vigilantly addressing issues related to the exploitation of Indian workers in various countries. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) meticulously maintains data regarding Indian workers holding Emigration Check Required (ECR) passports and working in 18 ECR category countries. These countries include Afghanistan, Bahrain, Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Malaysia, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Thailand, United Arab Emirates, and Yemen.
In response to the grievances of Indian nationals abroad, Indian Missions and Posts remain actively engaged in offering assistance. Grievances are received through multiple channels, including emergency telephone numbers, walk-ins, emails, social media, a 24×7 multilingual helpline, and open houses. Upon receiving information about a distressed Indian national, the respective Indian Mission or Post abroad promptly contacts the concerned individual, local foreign offices, and other relevant local authorities to verify the facts and ensure the welfare of the Indian national. The Missions and Posts also extend consular assistance and provide legal aid where necessary.
Proactive measures are taken to address complaints from Indian emigrants. These involve direct engagement with the foreign employer and, if required, visiting the workplace of the aggrieved worker. Regular organization of open houses and consular camps, especially in remote areas, forms a crucial part of the feedback and grievance redressal mechanism for Indian workers abroad.
Data from Indian Missions and Posts in Gulf countries reveal that a total of 33,252 complaints were received from Indian workers, including women, between March 2021 and December 2023. Kuwait recorded the highest number of complaints, followed by the United Arab Emirates and Oman.
This active approach, as highlighted by Union Minister of State for Labour and Employment Shri Rameshwar Teli, underscores the Indian government’s commitment to safeguarding the rights and welfare of its citizens working overseas. It reflects India’s concerted efforts to tackle the challenges faced by its expatriate workforce and ensure their protection against exploitation in foreign lands.