Hyderabad: The Centre has waived off the $2,500 bank guarantee, that was mandatory for residents of Gulf countries to employ Indian housemaids. To curb illegal migration and protect women from exploitation, the bank guarantee was brought in. However, many residents in the Gulf countries did not come forward, forcing the Centre to lift this bank guarantee.
Sr Lissy Joseph from National Workers’ Movement said that the government should focus on creating more awareness. “Many people do not know whom to approach for a safe travel. A proper mechanism to work abroad should be set up,” she said. Though this waiver is a boon to housemaids and employers, activists said that the government should set up proper facilities for domestic workers to register themselves without the interference of agents. A comprehensive insurance policy with a nominal premium can also aid them.
The 18 Gulf countries fall under the ECR (emigration clearance required) category and India is one of the biggest suppliers of housemaids to these countries. Many housemaids are exploited physically, sexually and mentally. In case of any untoward incident, this bank guarantee can be paid to the housemaid or her family.
“The government introduced this policy to safeguard the rights of the migrant women. After its launch, the number of women coming to the POE office for clearance came down drastically,” said migrant rights activist Mr M. Bheem Reddy. He also demanded that the mandatory age which is 30 for housemaids should be brought down to 25.
