Cyber Trafficking In India: Over 1,600 Nationals Repatriated from Southeast Asia
News Mania Desk/Agnibeena Ghosh/9th August 2024
India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has reported significant progress in addressing the issue of cyber trafficking, particularly involving Indian nationals in Southeast Asia. During a recent session in the Lok Sabha, Jaishankar highlighted the government’s concerted efforts to combat this alarming issue. According to his statement, substantial repatriation efforts have been made, with 650 Indian nationals returned from Cambodia, 415 from Myanmar, and 548 from Laos.
Jaishankar emphasized the severity of the situation and the proactive measures taken by the Indian government. He noted that the central authorities have engaged with their counterparts in affected countries at a political level to address the issue. This collaborative approach aims to mitigate the exploitation and abuse faced by Indian citizens trafficked for cyber crime activities in these regions.
The minister responded to questions from Congress MP Adoor Prakash about the steps taken against cyber trafficking. Jaishankar underscored that the Indian government is actively involved in tackling this problem, including presenting detailed reports and case statuses to ensure transparency and accountability. The government’s efforts include cracking down on illegal recruitment agents and initiating legal actions against those involved in criminal activities.
Jaishankar further detailed that the government has compiled a comprehensive list of cases state-wise for the past three years, which includes actions taken and the progress of legal proceedings. This transparency is part of a broader strategy to monitor and address the issue effectively.
The minister also addressed concerns about illegal agencies that mislead and exploit Indian nationals. He assured that these agencies would face strict consequences, including the potential for prosecution if they are found guilty of criminal activities. The government has set up measures to ensure that such agents are barred from operating and held accountable for their actions.
In addition to addressing the issue domestically, Jaishankar has engaged with international counterparts. In July, he met with the Prime Minister of Laos to discuss the trafficking of Indian nationals through cyber scam centers. During this meeting, he praised the cooperation of the Lao government in aiding the rescue and relief efforts for Indian citizens. He also engaged with the foreign ministers of Cambodia and Thailand to further address the issue.
The efforts to combat cyber trafficking are part of a larger initiative by the Indian government to protect its citizens abroad and ensure their safety. The comprehensive approach includes diplomatic engagement, legal action against perpetrators, and ongoing monitoring of the situation.
As the Indian government continues to tackle this complex issue, the focus remains on enhancing cooperation with Southeast Asian countries, improving the rescue and relief processes for affected nationals, and taking stringent actions against those involved in cyber trafficking. The recent repatriations reflect a significant step forward in addressing the crisis and safeguarding the rights and well-being of Indian citizens.
