Veeram's story
Read Veeram’s story, as narrated by one of our casework volunteers who has journeyed with Veeram and assisted him in his case. Veeram faced many difficulties in the course of pursuing his work injury case, including threats and almost being forcibly repatriated by his employer.
“Veeram is a construction worker. While hacking, some fragments pierced his eye – no safety goggles were provided. His supervisor helped wash his eyes out but did not take him to the doctor. After a few hours, the pain became unbearable, at which point he was taken to a GP, prescribed some medication and 2 days’ medical leave. However, the employer continued to make him work the following days while he was in constant pain. After repeatedly pleading with his employer, he was taken back to the same GP.
A whole month after Veeram’s accident, some fragments were surgically removed from his eye. He was then sent to hospital for further treatment.
However, Veeram’s employer did not report his work injury, which prevented him from being assessed for compensation. Frustrated, Veeram hired a lawyer. In retaliation, the employer tried to forcibly repatriate him. At the airport, Veeram refused to board the plane and stood firm in wanting to see through his work injury case before going home.
When HOME was contacted, Veeram told HOME that he wanted to complete his treatment and assessment because he did not want to leave until he knew the medical prognosis, and whether he was eligible for work injury compensation.
HOME accompanied him to his hospital appointment. Even there, his employers were present and tailed him continuously, demanding to speak to his doctor and asserting that they have control over Veeram. However, Veeram refused to be intimidated by their presence.
Veeram was medically advised that the blurred vision and the photosensitivity he was experiencing were the result of the workplace incident and he would be unable to work at any job under the sun.
Veeram hopes to be compensated and go back home to find some employment during the night hours so he can support his young family. He currently languishes in the dormitory without work or pay, venturing out for walks early in the morning and late in the evening to avoid the sun.
Employers who prevent workers from accessing rightful redress under the law should be taken to task. Laws such as the Work Injury Compensation Act exist to provide quick recourse to workers for their workplace injuries, and so that they can avoid lengthy court processes. They should not have to face barriers from their employers in accessing this remedy. Safety protocols must be followed, and safety equipment must be provided to workers. Injured workers should also receive prompt medical attention, as any delays may adversely affect their ability to continue working. All this is important for low-wage migrant workers whose families depend on them financially, and to ensure that they live and work with dignity.
Our job at HOME as caseworkers is to empower migrant workers with solutions to their problems but it is left to them to decide the road to take. Many of our clients choose the path of least resistance as they do not want to experience any further delays in their search for restitution or recourse. However, Veeram refused to be cowed by the immense pressure that he faced. He was resilient against the unjust treatment that he received from his employer and even at his lowest point, retained his courage and sense of humour.”
Photo: CNA