Piyush Goyal Facilitates Rescue of 36 Indian Workers Stranded in Oman

Thirty-six Indian workers who were stranded in Oman have been successfully brought back to India. This rescue operation was facilitated by Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, in collaboration with the Indian Embassy in Oman. Goyal highlighted that this effort aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision to provide assistance to Indians facing difficulties abroad.

The issue came to light when Govind Prasad, BJP Adhyaksh chief of Ward No 24, North Mumbai, informed Goyal about 18 Indian workers in Oman, including a relative, allegedly being exploited by their employer. The workers faced harsh conditions and needed urgent help. Responding promptly, Goyal instructed his team to prioritise the case and engage with the Indian Embassy for immediate action.

Rescue Efforts and Safe Return

The Embassy, with local authorities' support, located not only the 18 reported workers but also another 18 Indians in similar distress. All 36 were given temporary shelter at a local gurdwara while necessary formalities for their return were completed. Within days, they were safely repatriated to India, according to Goyal.

The workers had gone to Oman seeking better job opportunities but faced exploitation. They experienced delayed or partial salary payments after four to five months and lived in cramped accommodations. Their passports were confiscated, and loans were allegedly taken in their names. Some were even threatened with arrest if they tried to leave.

Government's Commitment to Citizens Abroad

Goyal emphasised that such incidents reinforce the government's commitment to protecting the welfare and dignity of Indians overseas. "For us, serving Indians in distress is not just a responsibility; it is a sacred duty," he stated. He assured that the government would do everything possible to ensure the safety and dignity of Indian workers abroad.

He also advised citizens to be cautious before accepting overseas employment offers. "Before travelling abroad for work, please verify the authenticity of agents and potential employers carefully," he suggested. This caution can prevent significant suffering and protect individuals from fraudulent agents.

Previous Interventions

In August this year, Goyal intervened in another case involving an Indian worker from Mumbai who died in Guinea, West Africa. Following his instructions, the Indian Mission acted swiftly to bring back the worker's mortal remains to his grieving family.

The BJP Lok Sabha MP from North Mumbai praised Prime Minister Modi's leadership and the government's dedication to safeguarding every Indian life abroad. "Our workers abroad are the pride of the nation," he said, reaffirming their commitment to ensuring their safety and dignity.

With inputs from PTI