UP, Haryana’s recruitment drive for Israel sparks backlash

Anwarulhaq

New Delhi, January 17, 2024:  In a move drawing significant backlash from major Indian trade unions, leaders, and humanitarian groups, Uttar Pradesh and Haryana governments have launched a recruitment drive to deploy thousands of construction workers to Israel. The controversial move, facilitated by the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC), has raised alarm over potential risks to the lives of workers and fears of displacing Palestinian labourers in the conflict-ridden region. Trade Unions and groups argue that the Indian government’s decision not only sidesteps standard protective measures for citizens working in conflict zones but also contradicts its longstanding pro-Palestinian stance. Concerns have been raised about the impact on Palestinian job opportunities, exacerbating the existing hardships faced by the local population.

Several major Indian trade unions, including CITU, AITUC, INTUC, and HMS, opposed the government’s decision, calling for the cancellation of the agreement signed in May 2023 between Indian and Israeli governments. The Construction Workers Federation of India (CWFI) also urged its members and the public to protest against jeopardizing the lives of construction workers by sending them to Israel.

Federation of Indian Trade Unions’ national president Shaikh Saleem criticized the move, expressing concerns about the potential strain on social dynamics and the resentment it may generate among Palestinians. He urged the Indian government to reject Israel’s demand and stand in solidarity with the Palestinian people.

Welfare Party of India (WPI) President Dr. SQR Ilyas condemned it as a betrayal to the Palestinian cause, emphasizing the lack of responsibility for the safety of Indian labourers in a war zone. He called for India to refrain from sending workers to Israel, citing the on-going conflict and Israel’s alleged actions as an apartheid state.

Replacing Palestinian Workers?

About 100,000 construction workers in Israel come from the West Bank and Gaza Strip, primarily Palestinians. Their work permits were revoked after October Hamas attacks, creating a labour shortage in Israel.  The Israeli government is now looking to address this gap by bringing in foreign workers, with reports suggesting that the Israel Builders’ Association had proposed hiring around 100,000 Indian workers. This move raises concerns about India contributing to the replacement of Palestinian workers, denying them crucial job opportunities and potentially fuelling resentment and conflict.

Concerns Over Human Rights and Worker Safety:

Critics said sending workers to Israel could be seen as undermining India’s long-standing pro-Palestinian stance and compromising its support for their right to self-determination.  They believe it may contribute to the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, already reeling from Israeli bombardments that have claimed over 23,000 lives, mostly women and children.

They fear Indian workers could be put in harm’s way in a war zone and lack adequate protections, as they’re reportedly exempted from standard registration and insurance programs offered to workers in other international markets.

NSDC’s role in current UP, Haryana’s recruitment drive?

Despite the opposition, the recruitment drive in Uttar Pradesh and Haryana is proceeding as part of a three-year agreement between the Indian Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and the Israeli government. The NSDC, while reportedly distancing itself from this recruitment drive, plays a crucial role in the initiative, prompting concerns about worker safety, lack of labour protections, and potential legal challenges.

Trade unions plan to challenge the recruitment drive

Trade unions plan to challenge the recruitment drive in court, highlighting the potential risks to worker safety and human rights. The controversy and legal challenges add uncertainty to the future of the recruitment drive, with the program facing increasing scrutiny and public opposition.

This situation underlines the complex geopolitical and ethical considerations surrounding labour migration, particularly in conflict zones. The Indian government will need to address concerns about worker safety, human rights, and its stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict to determine the future of this controversial program.