In a swift and coordinated effort, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) have successfully rescued six Indian migrant workers who endured months of captivity, torture, and exploitation at a plywood factory near Bangkok, Thailand.
The workers, all hailing from Kendrapara district in Odisha, had been held against their will for approximately six months. According to a statement released by the NHRC, the men faced severe physical and mental abuse, were forced to work 12-hour shifts without pay, denied adequate food, and had their passports confiscated by their employer.
The Indians were working at Sanvi Veneer Plywood Industry, located in Wat Nong Phai Kaeo, Thailand.
The breakthrough came after the NHRC took suo motu cognizance of a media report dated February 17, 2026. The report, which included a video recorded by the distressed workers themselves, highlighted their dire situation and prompted immediate action by authorities.
On 19 February, the Odisha govt wrote to the centre requesting immediate steps for the safe return of the workers. Detailed information about the workers, including details of their passports, was provided to the government to facilitate urgent intervention.
On February 20, 2026, the NHRC reached out to the MEA, seeking urgent assistance in the matter. The MEA’s Southern Division responded rapidly, engaging Thai authorities and directly contacting the employer to secure the workers’ release.
By February 21, 2026, just one day later, four of the six workers had been freed and repatriated to India. The employer was compelled to cover the cost of their flights from Bangkok to Kolkata, facilitating their safe return home.
Efforts continue for the remaining two individuals, who are facing complications due to visa overstay issues under Thai immigration law. The MEA is actively pursuing resolution with Thai authorities to enable their full repatriation as well.
The four persons who have returned to Odisha are Jayanta Kumar Mallick, Hemanta Kumar Behera, Manaranjan Sahu and Bijay Kumar Swain. Prasant Rout and Yasobant Sahoo remain Thailand due to visa issues, but have been released from captivity.
The government has reiterated its commitment to protecting Indian nationals working abroad, urging workers and families to register with the relevant authorities and use official channels for overseas employment to minimise such risks.
