Human trafficking to Malaysia; Idukki native's treatment in crisis

KOCHI: A woman, who was brought back home unconscious after suffering burn injuries in Malaysia, is facing difficulties continuing with her further treatments. Mini (54), the wife of Radhakrishnan of Karimaloor house in Vellayamkudy, Kattappana, is facing serious health problems, including respiratory issues. The government's promise to ensure expert treatment also failed.

Mini had regained consciousness during treatment at the Ernakulam Medical College Hospital. She is now at home in Kattappana. Mini had gone abroad with high hopes to settle her family's debts. She suffered burn injuries on the second day of her employment. The accident was caused by a gas cylinder leak.

Mini, who suffered burn injuries on March 8, was in the hospital in Malaysia until May 23. The owner and agent kept the accident secret. The truth came to light in an investigation conducted by her sister Jayanthi in Malaysia after she could not reach Mini on her phone. Norka and the Malayali Association intervened in their complaint. Mini was brought home by air ambulance on May 23. Two other women who had come to Malaysia with Mini after being scammed also returned home.

Alice, a native of Kumily, Murukkady, and Vichitra, a native of Tamil Nadu who has settled in Malaysia, are the brains behind the human trafficking. They charge Rs. 60,000, including visa and air ticket. Alice gets a commission of Rs. 25,000. Vichitra, meanwhile, hands over the woman to the employer for Rs two lakhs. Human trafficking is carried out through Trichy airport. It is reported that more than 40 Indian women, cheated by the gang, are still reeling in Malaysia. Shockingly, nobody complains as they try to adjust to the awful work environment with the hope of earning good money.