NHRC Investigates Allegations of Captive Workers from Odisha in Thailand
Synopsis
The NHRC has stepped in after reports of six Indian workers from Odisha being held captive in Thailand. They've been deprived of wages and food for six months. This alarming situation demands immediate action and highlights serious human rights concerns.
Key Takeaways
NHRC's active role: Initiated suo motu action on human rights violations.
Allegations of captivity: Six Indian workers from Odisha reportedly held without pay.
Video evidence: Victims shared their plight, showcasing dire conditions.
Government response: MEA asked to assist affected families.
Human rights impact: Highlights need for safeguarding workers' rights abroad.
New Delhi, Feb 23 (NationPress) The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has initiated suo motu cognizance following a media report revealing that at least six Indian workers from Odisha’s Kendrapara district have been unlawfully detained by their employer in Thailand, deprived of salaries and adequate food for the past six months.
This troubling situation was brought to public attention on February 17, when the affected individuals shared a video detailing their dire circumstances.
In their video, they claimed they were being held within a factory, enduring both physical and mental abuse, while being denied wages and proper nourishment.
Recognizing the gravity of the allegations, if proven accurate, the NHRC has reached out to the Union Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to inquire about potential support for the families of these workers.
The NHRC has requested a response from the MEA within one week.
As reported earlier, these workers traveled to Thailand in August of the previous year through a labor contractor who had assured them of employment with a substantial salary. However, upon arrival, they allegedly faced coercion to work nearly 12 hours daily in a plywood factory without any salary or sufficient food.
In their video plea, the workers also mentioned that their passports were confiscated by their employer and urged Indian authorities to assist in their safe repatriation.
The NHRC, established under the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, is an independent statutory body dedicated to addressing human rights issues in India. Its primary mission is to uphold and advocate for human rights, which encompass the right to life, liberty, equality, privacy, and dignity as enshrined in the Constitution and recognized in international agreements enforceable by Indian courts.
Notably, the NHRC possesses the authority to act suo motu based on media reports, public information, or other sources, without the necessity of a formal complaint regarding human rights violations.
Point of View
The NHRC's intervention underscores the critical need for vigilance in protecting the rights of Indian workers abroad. The reported conditions faced by these individuals highlight systemic issues in overseas labor practices that require immediate attention from both government and civil society.
NationPress
9 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What action has the NHRC taken regarding the workers?
The NHRC has initiated suo motu cognizance of the situation and has requested comments from the Union Ministry of External Affairs to explore assistance for the affected families.
Where were the Indian workers reportedly held captive?
The workers are reportedly held captive in Thailand, specifically in a plywood factory.
How long have the workers been deprived of wages and food?
The workers have been deprived of their salaries and adequate food for the past six months.
What was the initial reason for the workers' travel to Thailand?
The workers traveled to Thailand through a labor contractor who promised them employment with a good salary.
What rights does the NHRC uphold?
The NHRC is dedicated to protecting and promoting human rights, including rights related to life, liberty, equality, privacy, and dignity as guaranteed by the Constitution.
