Concern over migrant workers plight in Gulf countries

Numerous complaints from Indian migrant laborers, particularly from Kuwait, highlight issues such as non-payment of salaries, poor working and living conditions, insufficient basic amenities, harassment, and unfair treatment by employers.

- RAHIL GAHLAWAT

A significant number of migrant workers travel to Gulf countries under two-or-three-year labor contracts. Many of them endure deplorable living conditions in overcrowded labor camps. These camps often lack adequate sanitation, basic health facilities, and safe drinking water, resulting in subhuman living conditions.

Numerous complaints from Indian migrant laborers, particularly from Kuwait, highlight issues such as non-payment of salaries, poor working and living conditions, insufficient basic amenities like food and water, harassment, unfair treatment by employers, and difficulties in repatriating the bodies of deceased workers.

In many cases, workers' passports are confiscated upon arrival, leaving them dependent on their employers.

According to a research paper by Shivam Bhattacharya titled "Indian Migrants in Gulf States: A Critical Assessment of Their Issues and Challenges from a Human Rights Perspective," the socio-economic profile of Indian migrants in Gulf countries is often financially weak, with many selling properties to cover visa and fee costs. These migrants are exploited due to their technical expertise and willingness to work for low wages.

Many Gulf countries have not ratified labor law conventions or international treaties, including the "International Convention on the Protection of Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families 1990." Discrimination against women is prevalent, with few women holding senior positions. Migrants face minimal economic gains and struggle to save money. Restricted freedom of speech makes it difficult for them to protest against discrimination and rights violations.