​Away from home: On the plight of the Indian worker

The story of 16 Indian workers allegedly deceived into working under inhumane conditions in Libya highlights the persistent issue of labour exploitation faced by millions of Indians abroad. According to government reports, these workers, who had travelled to the United Arab Emirates for employment, were later coerced into relocating to Benghazi, Libya, to work in a cement factory. While the Indian mission has been providing them with food and supplies, the workers cannot leave without the necessary exit permits. This incident is far from isolated. In June, a fire at a labour camp in Mangaf, Kuwait, claimed the lives of at least 40 Indians. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Kuwait has brought attention to the plight of Indian workers, particularly those in labour camps. Despite Mr. Modi’s acknowledgment of Kuwait’s support for its over one-million-strong Indian community, the dangers faced by Indian workers remain a concern. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, there are around 13 million Indian nationals abroad, with most in the Gulf countries. These workers, who lack eligibility for citizenship in their host countries, contribute significantly to India’s economy through remittances — about $111 billion in 2022. However, their personal gains are often limited. Many are burdened by recruitment fees, loans for travel and relocation, and exploitative work conditions such as the kafala system in the Gulf countries.

The Indian government has made attempts to regulate labour migration. The introduction of the e-Migrate system over a decade ago for workers travelling to 18 countries requiring Emigration Clearance (ECR) was a step forward. However, labour contractors and agents, operating in international networks, often circumvent these safeguards. Moreover, these protections do not extend to non-ECR countries such as Israel and Russia, where Indian workers have faced dire consequences, including death in conflict zones. Reforming India’s Emigration Act, stricter monitoring of recruitment agents, and demanding higher compensation guarantees from foreign employers are necessary. Yet, a more sustainable solution lies in fostering equitable economic growth in India. Ultimately, in cases like that of the workers in Libya, the government is often left with no choice but to repatriate them. However, many return to a bleak future. For most, the harsh realities of life overseas still appear preferable. Rather than merely celebrating the success of its diaspora, India must use platforms such as the Pravasi Bharatiya Sammelan to address the struggles of these workers. Their plight remains in stark contrast to India’s growing economic and diplomatic ambitions on the global stage.