NRI Commission calls for action against duping expats with fake pension scheme

The State NRI Commission on Tuesday recommended strict legal action against an unauthorised organisation that allegedly collected large sums of money from expatriates under the pretext of a pension scheme.

The organisation, identified as Kottayam-based Pravasi Malayali Welfare Association India, is said to have collected funds from members in the form of membership fees and contributions. As per information received by the commission, nearly 25,000 people had enrolled with the association, which also issued membership cards to them.

Commission Chairperson Justice Sophie Thomas confirmed that the organisation had no approval or affiliation with Norka or Norka Roots, the official agencies responsible for the welfare of non-resident Keralites.

The issue came to the commission’s attention during an adalat held at the Kottayam Collectorate on Tuesday, where several complaints were raised against the association. While the Commission was reviewing the grievances, a number of other attendees revealed that they too had made payments to the same organisation.

“The number of complaints from expatriates falling victim to such fraudulent schemes is steadily increasing. People must remain alert against unauthorised organisations that make false promises in the name of welfare,” Justice Sophie Thomas said.

She added that the Commission would initiate awareness campaigns to prevent such scams and ensure that affected individuals receive proper legal assistance.