Four Odisha Workers Stranded in Thailand Plead for Rescue Amid Alleged Exploitation

Four migrant workers from Odisha’s Kendrapara district have made an emotional appeal to the Central and State governments for their rescue after allegedly being stranded in Thailand under distressing conditions.

The workers claim they have not received their salaries for the past four months and are struggling to survive without adequate food, money, or valid travel documents. Through a video message, they have sought urgent government intervention to facilitate their return home.

Workers Recruited on Tourist Visas

According to reports, the affected workers are identified as Kshirod Das of Gobanga village, Manoj Mallick of Poijharia village, Kailash Sethi of Nahuni village under Rajkanika block, and Nityananda Mallick of Padanipal village under Aul block. Another worker from Uttar Pradesh, Pasi Rajkumdal, is also stranded with them.

The five workers have been employed for more than a year at the Sanvi Veneer Plywood Company in Thailand’s Kabin Buri district. They alleged that the company owner had taken them to Thailand on tourist visas instead of proper work permits.

Salaries Stopped After Initial Payments

In their video appeal, the workers stated that they received their wages regularly during the first nine months of employment. However, for the last four months, they have allegedly not been paid any salary.

With no income, they are reportedly facing severe financial hardship and food shortages. The workers said they often survive by eating only one meal a day and remain hungry for the rest of the time.

Worker Falls Ill, Medical Assistance Denied

The workers further alleged that Kailash Sethi has developed serious health complications, including swelling in his hands and legs. Despite his deteriorating condition, the employer has reportedly refused to provide medical treatment or arrange healthcare support.

They claimed that they do not have any money left to seek treatment on their own.

Passport and Visa Issues Deepen Crisis

The workers alleged that their passports are currently not in their possession and that their visa validity has already expired. According to them, the company owner has informed them that they would be sent back only after paying additional money for the preparation of new travel documents.

They also claimed that the employer has threatened to report them to the police and even issued death threats if they refuse to continue working.

Appeal for Immediate Government Intervention

The stranded workers have urged both the Government of India and the Odisha Government to take immediate steps to ensure their safe return. Through their video message, they appealed for urgent diplomatic and administrative intervention, stating that they are living in fear and extreme hardship in a foreign country.

The families of the workers are also seeking assistance from the authorities, hoping for swift action to bring their loved ones back home safely.