MP Flags ‘Digital Slavery’, Seeks Action Against Fake Recruiters

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, Feb 15, 2026: Expressing concern over the growing number of youth from Dakshina Kannada and other parts of the country falling prey to “digital slavery” abroad, MP Brijesh Chowta has urged the External Affairs Ministry to take stringent action against fake recruitment agencies.

During a meeting with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar in New Delhi on Friday, the MP highlighted the recent rescue of five youths from Mangaluru who were trafficked to Cambodia under false job promises.

According to the MP, two recruitment firms sent the youths to Nepal, from where they were taken to Cambodia. Their documents were allegedly confiscated, and they were confined and forced to carry out digital fraud. Based on complaints by the rescued victims, Mangaluru police have registered a case against the owners of the two agencies.

Raising alarm over the increasing vulnerability of youth from rural and semi-urban areas seeking overseas employment, the MP sought strict regulation of overseas recruitment agencies. He also called for enhanced pre-departure counselling, awareness campaigns against fake recruiters, and stronger monitoring mechanisms in high-risk countries.

Mr. Jaishankar, the MP said, responded positively and assured steps to ensure the safety of Indians abroad, according to a press release.