MP Shahi slams govt. over Foreign Employment crisis, questions ministry accountability
Shahi criticized the Ministry of Labour and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for their inaction and indifference toward the suffering of Nepali migrant workers.
KATHMANDU: Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) lawmaker Gyanendra Shahi has raised serious concerns over the government’s failure to address the plight of nearly 8 million Nepali youths compelled to seek employment abroad.
Speaking during a session of the House of Representatives on Sunday, Shahi criticized the Ministry of Labour and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for their inaction and indifference toward the suffering of Nepali migrant workers.
“Nearly 8 million Nepalis are sweating in foreign lands to earn a living, yet our Labour and Foreign Ministries remain silent,” said Shahi, accusing the responsible government bodies of being disconnected from the harsh realities faced by migrant workers.
Citing cases of Nepali workers becoming virtual hostages in foreign countries, Shahi expressed outrage over the lack of government intervention. “Even when our people are held as hostages, the Labour Ministry shows no initiative,” he added.
Shahi highlighted that Nepalis working abroad have sent back remittances worth Rs. 1.44 trillion (Rs. 1,444.32 billion), yet the government has failed to introduce any concrete plans to ensure their safety and rights.
He also voiced alarm over the growing influence of human trafficking and fraudulent recruitment agents in the foreign employment sector.
“What is the role of the Labour Ministry when hundreds of thousands are falling into the trap of brokers and losing everything?” Shahi questioned. “Should the Labour Minister simply enjoy the privileges of office or work in the service of the people?”
Calling on the Labour Minister to understand and respond to the public’s suffering, Shahi warned that if the ministries fail to work in the interest of the people, their existence becomes meaningless.
