Revisiting Kuwait’s invasion amid war

The article revisits the 1990 Iraqi invasion of Kuwait, focusing on the plight of Indian migrant workers. It highlights their vulnerabilities, including wage theft and abandonment, and the challenges they faced during the conflict. It details the 'great Indian evacuation' and the crucial role played by Indian diaspora leaders in coordinating relief and repatriation efforts in the absence of state infrastructure. The article further discusses the long-term impact of the invasion on the migration strategies and social geography of the Malayali diaspora in Kuwait, emphasizing their increased savings, remittances, and community clustering for support and stability. It concludes by drawing parallels to contemporary conflicts and the continued vulnerability of migrant workers.