Indian Laborers Stranded in Kyrgyzstan: Families Allege Torture and Exploitation

Families of the stranded laborers have reported that their loved ones are being subjected to torture in Kyrgyzstan.

Pilibhit, UP:

Officials stated on Friday that the Pilibhit district administration has forwarded a comprehensive report to the Uttar Pradesh Home Department concerning 12 laborers from the district who are reportedly stranded and experiencing harassment in Kyrgyzstan.

District Magistrate Gyanendra Singh explained that the report was compiled after the Home Department requested factual information and instructed the Superintendent of Police to investigate. "We have gathered information about all 12 individuals stranded in Kyrgyzstan and forwarded it to the government to initiate procedures for their safe return," the DM informed PTI.

The families of these stranded workers claim they are being tortured abroad, and local agents are demanding up to Rs 2 lakh for arranging their return. The laborers themselves have been sending video messages to their families, pleading for rescue.

Relatives of the stranded individuals have been regularly approaching police and administrative officials seeking assistance. Earlier this week, several family members met with DM Singh and SP Abhishek Yadav to describe the distressing situation.

According to the families, the workers—identified as Ravi Kumar, Ajay, Chandrapal, Santram, Rohit, Ramesh, Harswaroop, Shyamcharan, Sanjeev, Prempal, Ramasare, and Harishankar—were sent to Kyrgyzstan approximately three months ago by agents operating a local recruitment agency. Each worker reportedly paid around Rs 2.5 lakh and was given a 59-day visa with what relatives claim were "misleading contracts."

The families allege that the workers are being forced to work in various cities, denied adequate food, and prevented from returning home. They further claim that the men are being physically abused and treated "worse than animals."

SP Yadav confirmed that CO City Deepak Chaturvedi has been assigned to investigate the matter. He stated that the families have submitted written complaints alleging that a local firm operating from a city colony, along with its representatives, allegedly played a role in sending them abroad under false pretenses.

Officials reported that all 12 workers wish to return to India as soon as possible, and their video appeals have been included in the investigation. The DM stated that the administration's report will help the state government take steps toward their repatriation.