When Jobs Abroad Turn Dangerous: Protecting Indian Migrant Workers

The participation of Indian mercenaries in the Ukraine War, whether self-styled migration or export, should be viewed with concern for multiple reasons. First, Indian lives and limbs are at stake, often seen as commodities up for sale. These individuals are not ideological fighters like those who joined America’s post-9/11 war or ISIS in Syria. Instead, they are aware of the risks and still choose to participate, driven perhaps by financial desperation.

Reports indicate that many of these mercenaries knew they would be deployed in the war zone, with some recruited as helpers but ending up on the front lines. Family sources in India confirm that these individuals understood the nature and risks of their employment. One individual even communicated from Russia that he would be undergoing military training. Tragically, several Indians have died fighting on the Russian side. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has stated that the recruitment of Indians as mercenaries for Russia is not in line with the India-Russia partnership, urging Russian officials to ensure the safe return of these individuals.

India is not alone in this situation. Russia has recruited fighters from other countries, including about a hundred ex-servicemen from Sri Lanka, who have military experience from their long conflict with the LTTE. These veterans, aware of the risks, likely saw mercenary work as a means to survive amidst Sri Lanka’s economic crisis. The Sri Lankan government has also engaged with Russian authorities to bring back its citizens and prevent further recruitment.

The issue extends beyond just mercenaries. Recently, reports have emerged of Indian IT professionals being lured to Myanmar and Cambodia with promises of high salaries, only to be forced into cybercrime under threat. Some of these individuals have sent desperate messages home, seeking help. The Indian government has taken steps to address these complaints and prevent further victimization.

The broader issue of Indian workers facing exploitation abroad is not new. For decades, semi-skilled and unskilled laborers seeking jobs in the Gulf have faced harsh realities, from squalid living conditions to much lower pay than promised. Many families have pawned jewelry to afford the recruitment fees, leaving workers no choice but to endure until they could repay these debts.

In states like Kerala, the plight of these laborers has been depicted in literature and film, highlighting their struggles. Similar exploitation has occurred in nearby nations like the Maldives, where Indian laborers have often faced underpayment and poor treatment. Skilled workers, including teachers and nurses, have also faced difficulties, such as being denied passports to return home for personal events.

The Government of India has made significant strides in addressing these issues. Under former External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, the MEA used technology to make it easier for Indians abroad to seek help, publicizing successful interventions to reassure citizens. This good work has continued under the current EAM, S Jaishankar.

Given the evolving challenges, the MEA could consider establishing dedicated desks to assist prospective job-seekers with information and support. This would require additional resources but could prevent many of the issues currently faced by Indian workers abroad. Tracking certain categories of workers and requiring clearance of employers by Indian missions could also be beneficial. Furthermore, the government could explore insurance schemes to protect workers against job loss or maltreatment.

Ultimately, the government should also focus on creating job opportunities within India to reduce the need for citizens to seek risky employment abroad. This would depend on the availability of jobs and the aspirations of the individuals involved. While challenging, these steps are crucial to protect Indian lives and ensure their well-being, whether at home or abroad.