Indian-origin businessman returns to Singapore after allegedly leaving 400 migrant workers unpaid

An Indian-origin permanent resident has returned to Singapore after allegedly leaving more than 400 migrant workers without salaries for several months, according to a government minister.

Ramu Palani Velu, who heads three companies — SK Industries, KPA Engineering and VVR Plant Engineering — had reportedly left workers, mainly from India and Bangladesh, without their wages. The affected employees approached Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower on June 22 seeking assistance to recover their unpaid salaries.

Minister of State for Manpower Dinesh Vasu Dash said Velu has since returned to Singapore and that authorities have impounded his passport, Channel News Asia reported.

During a visit to a temporary multi-facility accommodation centre where the workers are currently staying, Dash said Singapore would continue enforcing labour laws and take action against employers who violate regulations.

More from World

He urged workers facing salary issues to approach the Tripartite Alliance for Dispute Management (TADM), which is assisting them in filing claims. TADM is a joint initiative involving the Ministry of Manpower, the National Trades Union Congress and the Singapore National Employers Federation.

Dash said community organisations, including the Hindu Endowment and Hindu Advisory Boards and local temples, have also stepped in by providing support packages to help workers manage their daily needs.

Earlier, the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) and the Migrant Workers’ Centre (MWC) announced financial assistance for the affected workers, including SGD 200 in cash and supermarket vouchers, provided they are registered members of the organisation or sign up for membership.

The minister said around 20 workers have already secured new jobs in similar sectors, while most of the remaining workers are expected to find employment within the next two to three weeks.

Dash also expressed appreciation to the Migrant Workers’ Centre and the Singapore Contractors Association for helping connect affected workers with new job opportunities.

With inputs from agencies