15th June 2024 (10 Topics)
1
Jun
3
Jun
4
Jun
5
Jun
6
Jun
7
Jun
8
Jun
10
Jun
11
Jun
12
Jun
13
Jun
14
Jun
15
Jun
17
Jun
18
Jun
19
Jun
20
Jun
21
Jun
22
Jun
24
Jun
25
Jun
26
Jun
27
Jun
28
Jun
29
Jun
Death of workers in Kuwait underlines vulnerability of Indian migrants
You must be logged in to get greater insights. click here to login
Context
The recent tragic incident in Kuwait where 45 Indian workers died in a fire highlights the dire working conditions of a significant portion of the Indian diaspora in the Gulf region. This event underscores the lack of safety provisions and the exploitation faced by migrant workers, particularly under the kafala system.
Working Conditions and Safety Provisions:
- Inadequate Safety Measures: The labour camp lacked basic fire safety provisions like fire exits and firefighting equipment, contributing to the high casualty count.
- Overcrowding and Vulnerability: Reports indicate the building was overcrowded, exacerbating the rapid spread of the fire and highlighting the vulnerability of migrant workers.
- Government Response: The Kuwait government has initiated an investigation and vowed to hold those responsible accountable, signaling recognition of systemic failures.
Exploitation and Legal Protections:
- Vulnerability to Exploitation: Indian workers in the Gulf, including Kuwait, often face exploitation due to the kafala system that ties them to their employers, limiting their rights and mobility.
- Remittance Contribution: Indian workers in the Gulf contribute significantly to India's economy through remittances, underscoring their economic importance despite challenging conditions.
- Legal and Support Challenges: Legal redressal for migrant workers is cumbersome and expensive, compounded by language barriers and lack of legal aid, leaving them largely unprotected.
Policy Measures and Legislative Reforms:
- Existing Policy Framework: India has signed MoUs with Gulf countries to improve worker recruitment and legal protections, but implementation remains ineffective.
- Need for Legislative Updates: The outdated Emigration Act fails to adequately protect migrant workers, necessitating urgent legislative reforms.
- Government Responsibility: There is a pressing need for the Indian government to prioritize migrant worker welfare in policy and law, ensuring their safety and rights are upheld abroad.
Mains Question:
Q. Discuss the challenges faced by Indian migrant workers in the Gulf region, with a focus on the recent incident in Kuwait, and suggest comprehensive policy measures and legislative reforms needed to safeguard their rights and improve working conditions.
More Articles
Courses
Study
Notes
Home
Resources
More
