Indian Workers Face Abuse from Job Agencies in Armenia

 

Also read :American Startup Founder Faces Harsh Words from Rejected Job Applicant in India

Also read :Indian Workers Face Abuse from Job Agencies in Armenia

A group of 38 Indian nationals who traveled to Armenia seeking job opportunities through recruitment agencies say they endured mistreatment and deception. The Indian embassy in Armenia is now assisting the workers in safely returning home. This incident highlights the need for stronger protections for foreign employees.

Also read :Indian schoolgirl’s death over eve-teasing is blow to women’s rights

The Indian men reported paying hefty fees to agents promising good wages and housing. However, upon arrival, their experiences starkly differed. They were housed in cramped shipping containers without fans, beds, or bathrooms. The living quarters were dirty and offered no privacy.

Their assigned work also belied the agents’ claims. The workers had to manually lift heavy construction materials for nearly 12–14 hours daily under the hot sun with insufficient safety gear and few breaks. Despite the grueling effort, part of their wages were unlawfully withheld by employers violating rules and restricting the Indians’ freedoms.

Also read : Meesho Announces Third Round of Layoffs Amidst Shift Towards Profitability

Facing ongoing injustices, the 38 contacted the Indian embassy and a local human rights group for help. While the embassy was assisting their safe return, the recruiting agents refused to rectify issues or facilitate travel home.

This situation highlights the need for Armenia to establish new regulations on foreign worker recruitment and employers. When large sums are paid for overseas opportunities, abuse risks arise without local protections. Stronger laws, enforcement, and consequences are needed to safeguard employees and hold deceitful recruiters and unlawful employers accountable going forward. Open dialogue alone will not resolve such problems.