- Since times immemorial, people have always been on the lookout for greener pastures, even if it takes them far away from the comforts of known/familiar habitats. The phenomenon of migrating populations has been a long-standing occurrence that has withstood the test of time, allowing nomadic traits in human beings to emerge. Interspersed with adventurous conquistadors, humankind has faced a veritable challenge in letting go of the opportunity to stay in one place by exploring various lands in search of new opportunities. Not for nothing is it mentioned that humankind will not feel restricted by seemingly insurmountable challenges staring them. Our impulses will compel us to move out of our comfort zones in search of the unknown. That’s reality.
PC: Rediff
- Of course, things in the present-day modernity-defined world may have been changed in commensurate with the cutting-edge technology-driven measures. But what has not undergone a sea change is our urge to migrate to foreign shores in search of better opportunities, including employment. However, migrants in the present day should be made aware of the perils of employment in risky destinations. As reported recently, New Delhi is racing against time to halt the execution of Indian nurse Nimisha Priya in Yemen. Needless to mention, it’s a tough job. First, the execution, ordered under Sharia Law, is scheduled for July 16. Second, all legal appeals have been exhausted.
PC: Free Press Journal
- Third, even the option of paying blood money to halt the death sentence isn’t working. Adding to the complication is the fact that India does not have official diplomatic relations with Yemen’s Houthis, who control the capital Sanaa, where Nimisha is being detained. For the uninitiated, Nimisha has been sentenced for killing a Yemeni man who was her business partner but was abusing and exploiting her. Her case is a cautionary tale for Indian migrants seeking jobs in countries where the rule of law and security systems are far from modern, fair, or stable. This applies as much to today’s Yemen wracked by civil war as it does to Russia engaged in the bloody Ukraine war, and lawless parts of Myanmar, and Cambodia.
PC: Athlon Outdoors
- Indian nationals have been victims of unscrupulous middlemen and human traffickers who promised lucrative jobs. Instead, they were forced to fight in the Russian army on the frontlines of the Ukraine war or operate cyber-fraud schemes from compounds in Southeast Asia. What makes things even more tricky is that recruiters are getting sophisticated. They are using social media to lure their victims using standard webpages, online advertisements, and video streaming services to trap and blackmail. The share of social media usage in confirmed trafficking recruitment cases has jumped from 32% in 2009-2011 to 52% in 2015-2018. Mind you, this is the strength of the Indian diaspora. Better checks and counseling of migrants will help. The government should act.
