In a determined move to combat the exploitation of Indian migrant workers, the Protector of Emigrants (PoE), Thiruvananthapuram, in coordination with the Kerala Police Department, conducted a series of targeted raids in Pathanamthitta and Kottayam as part of the third wave of “Operation Migrant Shield.” The raids, carried out on May 20 and May 23, 2025, respectively, brought to light a disturbing network of illegal overseas recruitment practices operating outside the ambit of the Emigration Act, 1983.

These joint operations unearthed several unscrupulous activities perpetrated by unauthorized recruitment agencies. The PoE’s efforts were focused on identifying and dismantling networks that exploit vulnerable job seekers through false promises of overseas employment. The raids revealed widespread use of fraudulent job advertisements, particularly through social media, as well as forged employment contracts and unauthorized documentation.

During the course of the inspections, officials confiscated a significant cache of incriminating materials, both in soft and hard formats—including fake offer letters, fabricated memoranda of understanding with foreign agencies, and misleading promotional content targeting unsuspecting youth seeking work opportunities abroad. The findings confirmed that the raided agencies were operating without valid licenses issued by the Ministry of External Affairs and were engaged in duping aspirants with promises of non-existent jobs in foreign countries.

Many of the affected job seekers had paid exorbitant sums to these agencies, only to be handed fraudulent documents and left with no legal recourse. Investigations further revealed a lack of transparency in recruitment processes, with several workers not informed about the basic details of their employment, such as job roles, wages, or working conditions, thus exposing them to unsafe and exploitative environments overseas.

Major Shashank Tripathi, Protector of Emigrants, Thiruvananthapuram, emphasized that “Operation Migrant Shield” is a sustained initiative to safeguard Indian emigrants from fraudulent recruitment practices. “These raids are part of our ongoing commitment to ensuring that all overseas recruitment is conducted lawfully and transparently. We will not tolerate any agency or individual who seeks to exploit our citizens through illegal or unethical means,” he stated.

The PoE has confirmed that legal proceedings are being initiated against the erring agencies. Further investigations are in progress to trace all individuals associated with the illegal recruitment networks. The authorities are committed to ensuring that those responsible are held accountable and brought to justice.

In addition to the enforcement efforts, the Protector of Emigrants has issued a public advisory urging job seekers to be vigilant while engaging with recruitment agents. Prospective emigrants are encouraged to verify the credentials of agencies through the official eMigrate portal before proceeding with any job application or financial transaction. Job seekers are also advised to refrain from paying excessive fees, signing blank documents, or accepting unclear contract terms. As per the Emigration Act, 1983, the authorized service charge for recruitment is ₹30,000 plus 18% GST.

Any suspicious activities or instances of exploitation may be reported to the Pravasi Bharatiya Sahayata Kendra (PBSK) helpline at 1800 11 3090.

This renewed phase of “Operation Migrant Shield” stands as a testament to the Government’s resolve in upholding the rights of Indian workers and ensuring their access to safe, fair, and legal pathways to employment abroad. The PoE, Thiruvananthapuram, has reiterated its commitment to maintaining vigilant oversight over recruitment practices and taking decisive action against violators of the law.

***

NK

(Release ID: 2131890)