Odisha govt seeks MEA help to rescue six migrant workers stranded in Thailand

The Odisha government has stepped up efforts to rescue six migrant workers stranded in Thailand, writing to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to facilitate their safe return. 

The Principal Resident Commissioner and the Labour Commissioner formally apprised the Ministry on Wednesday, seeking urgent intervention.

In the letter, the state authorities have requested that necessary steps be taken to ensure the workers are rescued safely and brought back to India at the earliest. Discussions are also underway regarding further measures to be taken by the Odisha government.

Workers Allege Non-Payment, Threats

The six workers, five from Kendrapara district and one from Bhadrak, have reportedly been stranded in Thailand after travelling there in August 2024. They had gone following promises of employment at a plywood manufacturing company.

According to the workers, they were assured a monthly salary of Rs 25,000 along with food and accommodation. However, they allege that although they worked for nearly six months, they were not paid for the last three to four months. 

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The stranded Odia workers have also claimed that when they demanded their pending wages, the employer threatened them.

Appeal for Safe Return

The workers have further alleged acute food shortages and said they were subjected to harassment. Unable to return home due to lack of money, they have appealed to the Odisha government for immediate intervention.