National Human Rights Commission Takes Suo Motu Cognizance of Alleged Captivity of Indian Workers in Thailand.

New Delhi:

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India has taken suo motu cognizance of media reports alleging that at least six Indian workers from Kendrapara district of Odisha have been held in captivity by their employer for the past six months in an area near Bangkok, Thailand.

According to reports, the matter surfaced on February 17, 2026, after the victims recorded and circulated a video message detailing their ordeal. In the video, the workers alleged that they have been confined within a factory premises, subjected to physical and mental torture, denied wages, and deprived of adequate food. They further claimed that their passports had been confiscated by their employer.

The Commission observed that if the contents of the media report are found to be true, they indicate serious violations of the human rights of the victims. Taking note of the gravity of the allegations, the NHRC has sought comments from the Ministry of External Affairs on whether any assistance can be extended to the families of the affected workers. The Ministry has been asked to respond within one week.

As per the media report published on February 19, 2026, the workers had reportedly travelled to Thailand in August last year through a labour contractor who had promised them lucrative employment with attractive salaries. Instead, they were allegedly forced to work up to 12 hours a day in a plywood factory without pay and under harsh conditions.

The victims have appealed to Indian government authorities to intervene and facilitate their safe return to India. The NHRC’s intervention is expected to expedite diplomatic and humanitarian efforts to address the situation and ensure the protection of the workers’ rights.

Further developments are awaited pending the response from the Ministry of External Affairs.