Indian Government Repatriates 1,664 Nationals Victimized by Job Scams

The Indian government has repatriated 1,664 citizens who were victims of job scams in Cambodia and Myanmar. External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar emphasized the government’s actions against fraudulent recruitment agencies and ongoing support for Indian workers abroad. He highlighted the necessity of regulatory measures and international cooperation to combat rising cyber fraud and protect Indian migrants.

In a significant development, the Indian government has successfully repatriated a total of 1,664 Indian nationals who fell victim to online job frauds perpetrated in Cambodia and Myanmar. External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar outlined these efforts during a session in the Lok Sabha, addressing concerns raised by Telugu Desam Party MP Magunta Sreenivasulu Reddy regarding the plight of Indian migrant workers. Dr. Jaishankar specifically mentioned the government’s actions against the recruitment agencies involved, including the cancellation of their licenses and recommendations for legal prosecution of those implicated in these fraudulent activities.

The Minister detailed the gravity of the online job scams prevalent in Southeast Asia, emphasizing that unsuspecting individuals are lured into fraudulent employment schemes that often lead to perilous working conditions in illegal job markets. He confirmed that 1,167 Indian citizens were repatriated from Cambodia, while 497 returned from Myanmar. Furthermore, the Indian government has established communication with relevant authorities in Myanmar, Cambodia, and Laos to address these cyber fraud cases effectively.

Additionally, Dr. Jaishankar commented on broader challenges faced by Indian workers in regions such as the Gulf and Middle East, wherein issues such as underpayment, wage non-fulfillment, and mistreatment have been reported. The Indian embassies in those countries are actively holding open forums and monitoring conditions to ensure the welfare of Indian professionals abroad. As of December 8, 2,164 recruiting agencies were registered on the eMigrate portal to help mitigate these problems.

The issue of Indian nationals becoming victims of job frauds has been a growing concern, particularly in Southeast Asia, where deceptive online job advertisements lure individuals into working illegally. The Indian government has recognized the need to address these scams and protect its citizens abroad from exploitation. This situation is compounded by similar challenges in other regions, notably the Gulf and Middle East, where Indian workers frequently face underpayment and maltreatment. The involvement of recruitment agencies further complicates the issue, highlighting the necessity for regulatory oversight and enforcement actions against those who deceive job seekers. The government’s proactive stance and collaboration with foreign nations underscore the importance of safeguarding the welfare of Indian citizens working overseas.

In conclusion, the Indian government’s recent actions to repatriate 1,664 nationals stranded due to job scams in Cambodia and Myanmar reflect a dedicated effort to combat online fraud and protect its citizens. Minister Jaishankar’s statement highlights the collaborative measures being undertaken with foreign governments and the increasing oversight of recruitment agencies. Ongoing monitoring and support by Indian embassies are essential to address the significant challenges faced by Indian workers globally, particularly in vulnerable regions.

Original Source: indianexpress.com