Chapter 1: Legal Triumph for Indian Worker

An Indian migrant worker has achieved a significant legal victory against his employers in Singapore, who were found negligent in their transportation practices.

In 2017, Ramalingam Murugan, 39, suffered a leg fracture while disembarking from an overcrowded lorry that was carrying 15 workers. He subsequently filed a lawsuit against his employers—a construction firm and a subcontractor—seeking compensation for his injuries.

In a notable outcome, Murugan was awarded S$92,000 (approximately US$68,000), a rarity for migrant laborers in Singapore, who often struggle to access legal recourse and assert their rights.

Murugan expressed his relief through a statement issued by his lawyer, stating, "I am eager for this matter to reach a conclusion. I hope to receive fair compensation for the pain I have endured." He also voiced his desire for his experience to encourage other workers facing similar circumstances.

"There may be individuals who suffer injuries and refrain from seeking compensation out of fear or misinformation—that pursuing compensation might hinder their ability to return to Singapore. I urge these workers to come forward and seek assistance," he said.

Murugan emphasized the need for employers to prioritize worker safety, noting that they are frequently assigned hazardous tasks and often feel compelled to comply.

Local civil rights activist Jolovan Wham highlighted the rarity of such victories for migrant workers, noting that confronting powerful employers is seldom seen. "This ruling is a crucial milestone," Wham remarked to CNN. "It underscores the urgent need for the Singapore government to take action. Legislation for protection and mandatory safe transportation must be established, yet the government has delayed addressing this issue for years."

"This case illustrates that migrant workers can achieve justice in Singapore if they are willing to stand up for their rights," she added.

Murugan's case also sheds light on the inadequate working and living conditions faced by migrant laborers in Singapore, who are frequently transported in the back of lorries without adequate safety measures.

This unsafe practice has led to numerous accidents, resulting in injuries and fatalities among migrant workers. A report from Today Online indicated at least 10 fatal incidents involving lorries carrying workers between 2010 and 2020.

Labor rights advocates have been pushing for a prohibition on this method of transport, labeling it both dangerous and degrading for the workers.

"It is imperative that we put an end to the practice of transporting workers via lorries. This method is unsafe and undermines the dignity of these individuals," said Jolovan Wham, a labor activist.

Despite this, some employers and government bodies have resisted the ban, citing concerns over costs, convenience, and the lack of alternative transportation options.

In response to petitions and media inquiries, Singapore's Ministry of Transport (MOT) issued a statement on August 2, acknowledging the "importance of safety" but also noting "mixed opinions" regarding a ban.

"MOT stated that employers and industry associations have expressed worries that a ban would jeopardize the operation of many businesses," the statement explained. "Beyond financial implications, there are also structural and operational challenges, including the availability of alternative transport methods."

Chapter 2: The Broader Implications of Murugan's Case