NHRC Takes Suo Motu Cognizance of Jharkhand Migrant Workers Stranded in Dubai

The Voice of Chandigarh | Travel Trade Reporter

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India has taken suo motu cognizance of shocking reports that at least 14 Indian migrant workers from Jharkhand are stranded in Dubai, allegedly facing grave human rights violations.

According to media reports, the workers—belonging to Giridih, Hazaribagh and Bokaro districts—were employed by a company involved in transmission line work. The workers have alleged that their passports were confiscated, wages remain unpaid, and they are being prevented from returning to India.

Taking serious note of the matter, the NHRC has observed that, if the allegations are true, they point to a clear violation of human rights. The Commission has therefore issued notices to the Chief Secretary of Jharkhand and the Head of the State Migrant Workers Control Room (MWCR), seeking a detailed action-taken report within two weeks.

As per the report dated 3 February 2026, one stranded worker informed over the phone that the employer deducted most of their salary to recover air ticket expenses, charged them for accommodation, and left them without money even for food.

The distressed workers have appealed to the Jharkhand government for immediate intervention and facilitation of their safe return to India.