Bokaro: In a successful rescue mission, 27 workers from Jharkhand, who were stranded in Cameroon, Central Africa, have safely returned to India. These workers, from Giridih, Hazaribagh, and Bokaro, were employed on a construction project since March 29, 2024, but faced wage issues and forced labour conditions. Praveen Kumar, the Labour Superintendent of Bokaro, said that “the workers have arrived in Mumbai and are now on their way to Jharkhand. They should reach their homes shortly.”
A week ago, the workers had released a video pleading for assistance from the Jharkhand and Central governments. In response, State Labour Minister Satyanand Bhokta directed the appropriate department to ensure their safe return. The Jharkhand Government’s Labour, Employment, Training, and Skill Development Secretary then contacted the Ministry of External Affairs, and the Protector of Emigrants was also notified.
Upon the Ministry of External Affairs’ intervention, a meeting was held with the company, resulting in the payment of outstanding wages and permission for the workers to return home. The workers arrived in Mumbai from Cameroon late Sunday night.