Concern over fake ads

“Media has to be extra cautious while publishing overseas job vacancies,” said director of Protector of Emigrants D Jai Shankar, here on Thursday.

Speaking at the inaugural of a media workshop organised by Migrant Forum in Asia (MFA) and National Domestic Workers Movement to focus on migrant issues, he said, “We have noticed that unlicensed agencies are posting advertisements in the local media, which do not follow the norms set by the Government of India.” Pointing out that citizens land in trouble due to these fake advertisements, he underlined the vital role the media has to play in this regard.

While giving a broader perspective on the issue, Muscat-based Indian social worker Shanthini Moses detailed the hurdles faced by the Indian migrants, especially by domestic workers in Gulf countries. “Many of the domestic workers, especially in the interior areas, are treated badly in the Gulf countries. Well planned pre-departure awareness programmes can reduce such hassles,” she said.

The workshop aimed at strengthening the synergy among civil society organisations and the media in order to bring out the voices of migrants to the media and sensitise the public on the entire situation. “Media reportage can provide additional support to policy advocacy of civil society organisations. Working together with the media can help us resolve the issues much more effectively,” state coordinator of Migrant Forum India Sister Valarmathi said. Speaking on the occasion, MFA India coordinator Rafeek Ravuther spoke on the necessity of such events that encourage deliberations to facilitate informed and just migration.