Kuwait dealing with residency violators by the book

Kuwaiti Ambassador to India Sami Al-Sulaiman has affirmed that the issue of deporting Indian violators of Kuwait's residence law "comes within the normal procedures" carried out by the Kuwaiti authorities, "and it does not concern only the Indians, but applies to all non-nationals residing in Kuwait." "Kuwaiti authorities are enforcing the law, and adjust the residence situation of all foreign residents in the country," a statement quoting Al-Sulaiman issued to KUNA on Monday said. The Kuwaiti ambassador met the Indian Minister of State for External Affairs E. Ahamed Sunday evening, and affirmed that Kuwait welcomes people of all nationalities including Indians who wish to live and work in Kuwait and requests them to abide by the laws and the country's norms and traditions. Hundreds of migrant workers have returned to India from Kuwait in the past few weeks after the Kuwaiti government launched a major crackdown on unauthorized workers. Kuwait's action has raised fears that the number of workers returning home may swell in coming weeks. The Ambassador meanwhile highlighted the excellent relations between the two nations and expressed appreciation of Indian workers' contributions toward Kuwait's progress and development projects. "Kuwait hosts more than 670 thousand Indians who form the largest community in Kuwait. The embassy in New Delhi and the Consulate General in Mumbai are currently issuing between 600 and 700 visas per day for Indians." On whether the Kuwaiti authorities granted deportees the opportunity to take their luggage and belongings before deporting them, Ambassador Al-Sulaiman stressed that in the case of arrests for residence law, a violator's embassy would be notified and involved in very early stage. "The same applies to Indian violators. The Kuwaiti authorities would immediately inform the Indian Embassy and enough time would be given before deportation procedures." The official explained that the immigration and labor laws in Kuwait are clear and well known to the authorities and Indian citizens, referring to the joint working group which was formed by the two countries to consider these dossiers. On responsibility of the Kuwaiti sponsor in case of violation of Kuwaiti residency law, the Kuwaiti Ambassador said that in cases where the sponsor's involvement is found, penalties would be imposed against him/her