In a significant development, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has demanded a detailed report from the Jharkhand government regarding 14 workers from the state stranded in Dubai for nearly three months. The workers, hailing from Bokaro, Giridih, and Hazaribagh districts, had made a desperate plea for help through viral social media videos, which caught the attention of media and authorities alike.
The laborers traveled to Dubai around three months ago for transmission line work promised by EMC company. However, they allege non-payment of wages, confiscation of passports, and forced overtime that has left them unable to afford basic necessities like food and shelter. Their emotional videos circulated widely, prompting NHRC to take suo motu cognizance.
NHRC’s notice highlights potential grave human rights violations, including passport seizure to prevent return and wage withholding. The commission has issued directives to Jharkhand’s Chief Secretary and the head of the State Migrant Workers Control Room, requiring a comprehensive response within two weeks.
One worker shared over phone that the company deducted hefty sums from salaries for flight tickets and living expenses, plunging them into dire straits. They urgently seek safe repatriation to India.
This incident underscores ongoing concerns about Indian migrant workers in Gulf countries facing exploitation, bonded labor-like conditions, and rights abuses. Jharkhand, a major source of semi-skilled labor migrating abroad, has established a dedicated control room now tasked with swift action.
As the government responds, this case could spotlight the need for stronger protections for overseas workers, ensuring their rights are safeguarded in foreign lands.