A woman from Hyderabad, reportedly a victim of trafficking from Dubai to Oman under the pretext of a job offer, has found refuge at the Indian embassy in Oman, as disclosed by activist Charmesh Sharma. This development transpired after Sharma, dedicated to assisting stranded Indians abroad, wrote to the President, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and the Indian Embassy in Oman on January 7, following the initial report by PTI Videos. Oman offers shelter to the trafficking victim, showcasing swift intervention in response to Sharma’s appeal.
In November of the previous year, Fareeda Begum (49) had traveled to Dubai for work through an agent. However, after just 21 days, she fell ill. In her compromised health state, she was then sent to Muscat for employment, as shared by her sister Famida to PTI Videos last week.
Famida expressed concern about her sister’s deteriorating health, stating, “Her health is continuously deteriorating, and she is unable to even talk on the phone now. I request the Indian Embassy to rescue my sister and bring her back home.”
Activist Charmesh Sharma alleged that instead of repatriating Fareeda to India after her illness in Dubai, the agent named Shahanaz sent her to Muscat. Once in Muscat, Fareeda’s mobile phone, passport, and other documents were purportedly confiscated, compelling her into forced labor, as revealed by Sharma.
Acknowledging the gravity of the situation, the Indian embassy in Oman responded to Sharma’s complaint. Welfare officer Pradeep Kumar informed him that Fareeda visited the Indian Embassy on January 8, and she was provided accommodation at the embassy shelter in Muscat along with board and lodging.
The welfare officer, Pradeep Kumar, assured Sharma that necessary steps would be taken to address Fareeda Begum’s situation. The prompt response from the Indian embassy signifies their commitment to the welfare and protection of Indian citizens abroad. This case sheds light on the vulnerability of individuals who fall victim to trafficking schemes and the crucial role that activists and diplomatic missions play in their rescue and support.
The situation also underscores the importance of stringent measures to prevent human trafficking and protect the rights and well-being of those seeking employment abroad. It remains a critical challenge to ensure the safety and security of individuals who migrate for work, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts between government authorities, activists, and international organizations to combat human trafficking and provide timely assistance to those in distress.
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